The test of autonomous driving with the intelligent electric shuttle “Elbi” in Magdeburg was a complete success. “Every day, an average of around 40 passengers used the offer,” reported Olga Biletska from the research project “AS-Urban ÖPNV” at the University of Magdeburg, which scientifically accompanied the test. There were often more on the weekends. Elderly people and young families with children who do not have their own vehicles or who only rarely use them were particularly curious. The bus only runs until (tomorrow) Sunday.
A useful addition to public transport – but very slowly
In surveys, the passengers said they had positive feedback about the minibus with six seats, which commuted on a preprogrammed route between Seumestrasse in the old town and the city park. After the trip, many indicated that they would also like to use automated vehicles in the future. These are a useful addition to local public transport.
Only the slow speed of 15 kilometers per hour as well as the limited space have met with some criticism. On the other hand, the feeling of security was high among all those questioned.
From the researchers’ point of view, too, the project funded by the European Regional Development Fund was successful. There were no technical failures and the vehicle’s sensors reacted well in all situations. The trips were only interrupted in heavy rain, fog or snow.
Since it is not yet possible in Germany for legal reasons, among other things, to drive autonomously, i.e. completely without human intervention, specially trained tram drivers sat on the bus as so-called operators in order to be able to intervene in an emergency. The test has been running since September.
(tiw)