As part of a pilot project to test autonomous vehicles, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey announced it would debut a driverless shuttle at Newark International Airport
The autonomous shuttle van will operate between P2 AirTrain Station/ Parking Facility and the new Terminal A at the airport. The driverless shuttle is the latest step in the Port Authority’s effort to leverage energy technology and marks the first time an autonomous vehicle is operating on public roads in New Jersey.
“Being the first to bring driverless vehicles to New Jersey roads is the latest example of the Port Authority pushing the envelope when it comes to keeping the region moving,” Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole said. “The goal is always a streamlined, modern and more convenient journey. If new technology can help get us there, we’re willing to explore it.”
The month-long pilot project will operate in conjunction with STV and Perrone Robotics. STV and Perrone responded to earlier calls for solutions to last-mile transit challenges for short-length transportation options. Officials said the autonomous vehicles would allow for faster, more reliable connections between busy points within the airport’s campus.
“For more than a hundred years, the Port Authority has been defined by technological and engineering breakthroughs, and now we’re putting the computerized pedal to the metal,” Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton said. “Innovation needs to be a major pillar in utilizing 21st century technology to provide the quality of public services the region deserves.”
The pilot project retrofitted a 14-passenger Green Power AV-Star shuttle with autonomous driving technology including sensors, cameras and mapping functionalities. The shuttle was tested on a safety course before being tested on airport roads at night, and then being tested on airport roads during the day.