Renault Group is set to showcase its latest advancements in autonomous driving technology at the Roland-Garros tennis tournament in Paris. From May 26th to June 9th, 2024, the company will trial a Level 4 autonomous minibus shuttle service. This initiative aims to transport passengers between a designated car park and the Roland-Garros stadium complex. By demonstrating the potential of self-driving minibuses in urban public transportation.
Collaboration with WeRide
This ambitious project is a result of Renault Group’s collaboration with WeRide, a prominent autonomous driving technology firm. Their partnership began in 2018 when Alliance Ventures, the strategic fund of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, invested in WeRide. Today, WeRide operates a fleet of over 700 Level 4 autonomous vehicles, including 300 minibuses, which have collectively covered over 28 million kilometers across Asia, the Middle East, and North America.
Autonomous Shuttle Service at Roland Garros
The self-driving minibuses will operate during the Roland-Garros tournament, offering a convenient and efficient transport solution for attendees. This service underscores Renault’s commitment to exploring and expanding the applications of autonomous vehicles in real-world scenarios. By focusing on Level 4 autonomy, Renault aims to demonstrate the operational capabilities and benefits of driverless minibuses in a controlled environment.
Strategic Focus on Autonomous Technology
Renault is pursuing a two-pronged strategy for autonomous technology, targeting both personal vehicles and public transportation. For passenger cars, the company is currently focusing on Level 2 and Level 2+ advanced driver assistance systems. Renault believes that the incremental cost of higher levels of automation does not justify the benefits for the current market demand. However, for public transportation, Renault sees significant potential in Level 4 autonomous minibuses.
Benefits of Autonomous Minibuses
Renault identifies several advantages of autonomous minibuses for urban areas:
- Sustainability: As cities implement low-emission zones, electric autonomous minibuses offer a greener alternative to traditional transport.
- Efficiency and Flexibility: These minibuses can operate around the clock, providing a flexible solution that reduces dependency on conventional public transport infrastructure.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The absence of on-board operators can help offset the initial investment costs associated with automation technology.
Modular Platform for Diverse Needs
Renault plans to utilize a modular platform based on the New Renault Master for its autonomous minibuses. This platform will integrate automation solutions from various partners, including EasyMile, Milla, and WeRide. Such flexibility ensures that the minibuses can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different regions and municipalities.
Ongoing and Future Projects
Renault is no stranger to exploring autonomous public transportation solutions. The company has been conducting trials for several years, with notable projects like the “Mach 2 project,” announced in 2023. This initiative aims to integrate a fleet of autonomous electric minibuses into the public transportation network of Chateauroux Metropole, France, by 2026.
Conclusion
The deployment of Level 4 autonomous minibuses at Roland-Garros 2024 marks a significant milestone for Renault Group in its journey towards innovative and sustainable urban mobility solutions. This trial not only showcases the practical applications of autonomous driving technology but also highlights Renault’s strategic vision for the future of public transportation. As the company continues to refine and expand its autonomous vehicle offerings, the lessons learned from such initiatives will be crucial in shaping the future of mobility. Follow for more Honda 0 Series EVs Target Near-500 KM Range
Source https://www.carandbike.com/
