Technology

Deploying cutting-edge technologies and next generation autonomy to overcome the complexities of automated driving in busy cities.

Firstly, we are investigating how the autonomous vehicle technology can be deployed successfully in built-up areas – for example, navigating through busy streets.

And secondly, we are taking a system approach, exploring how infrastructure outside vehicles can support onboard technology and reduce overall cost. For example, if we install more cameras and sensors on lampposts, how does that impact on the onboard autonomous vehicle technologies?

We're building on previous research, such as the Human-Drive project, and seeing how the autonomous vehicle and city infrastructure can combine to become the next step to driving autonomously in dense urban environments.

People

How we create a user experience that puts people at the centre of consideration. Our work will involve understanding and capturing how people interact with taxi services today; researching the barriers to adoption of autonomous mobility services; and understanding what people need and expect from future transport services.

All with a view to creating an experience that is as intuitive, familiar and as “human-like” as possible.

We’re here to help cities be inclusive in their thinking. After all, mobility is something everyone needs.

Scalability

Working out how to scale autonomous mobility services, identifying the most economically and technically viable areas of operation.

This part of the research programme involves understanding where demand for mobility services is likely to be highest, alongside identifying city infrastructure that already exists and how it can be adapted for an autonomous future.

We already know that resources are limited, and budget holders need to prioritise where new mobility services can have most impact.

This research will help us develop guidelines for service providers and city authorities to build the new business models to make autonomous mobility services a success.