Alexander Dennis will supply three Enviro100AEV battery-electric autonomous buses to the Cambridge Connector consortium, of which it is now a member alongside parties including technology company Fusion Processing and operator Stagecoach.
The Enviro100AEVs will be part of a four-strong fleet delivering services in Cambridge under the project. The three bus industry partners are already working together on the CAVForth autonomous undertaking in Scotland, for which an Enviro100AEV has been ordered for use on the CAVForth2 second stage.
Connector will build on that joint expertise and other experience to adapt the vehicle and its technology for services at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. The Enviro100AEV fleet will be built later in 2024. Service entry is expected in 2025 following testing and training, with “safety drivers” to be provided for onboard supervision.
Lead party for the consortium is the Greater Cambridge Partnership, with other members including dRISK, Gamma Energy, and IPG Automotive. Part funding comes from the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles.
Alexander Dennis Group Engineering Director Chris Gall says that the manufacturer is “delighted” to have been chosen to join the Connector consortium with the Enviro100AEV.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to further the development of this technology with our partners as we continue to explore use cases where autonomous buses can improve operational efficiency and add flexibility to transport networks,” he continues.
Adds Fusion Processing CEO Jim Hutchinson: “Our CAVStar Automated Drive System will provide the sensors, control modules and software that will allow the project vehicles to drive autonomously on the Cambridge routes, showcasing a safe and efficient new type of public transport system.”
