Furttal Autonomous Mobility Pilot
The Furttal Autonomous Mobility Pilot, led by Swiss Transit Lab and partners, aims to integrate autonomous vehicles into public transit in the Zurich region, enhancing efficiency and offering on-demand transportation options.
Involved members
Furttal Autonomous Mobility Pilot
The Furttal Pilot Project is an innovative initiative led by the Swiss Transit Lab (STL) in collaboration with the Canton of Zurich and Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). The project aims to enhance public transportation by introducing autonomous vehicles as a complement to the existing transport network in the Furttal region near Zurich. It represents an effort to integrate autonomous mobility solutions in Switzerland, focusing on practical, scalable, and cost-effective operations.
Project Goals
- Demonstrate Value for Public Transit: Showcase the benefits of autonomous vehicles in enhancing the local public transportation system.
- Gain Operational Insights: Gather data on service models, costs, and operations to establish frameworks for future autonomous mobility solutions.
- Shape the Future Market: Foster a regulatory and operational ecosystem conducive to the integration of autonomous technologies.
Key Features
The pilot operation will begin in Otelfingen, Boppelsen, Hüttikon and Dänikon. The trial area is to be gradually extended to the municipalities of Buchs, Dällikon and Regensdorf. Vehicles will function as train feeders and provide on-demand local transport options.
🔹 At the start of the pilot project, up to four automated passenger cars will be circulating in the Furttal valley so that the population can take advantage of the service.
🔹 In 2026, the fleet will be supplemented by minibuses.
Possible routes
Phased Implementation
- 2024-2025: Setup and technology familiarization.
- 2025-2027: Public operations with passenger trials.
- Post-2027: Scaling and expanding service areas based on demand and insights.
Project Partners
- Swiss Transit Lab (STL): project leadership and operations.
- Canton of Zurich: financial and strategic contributions.
- Swiss Federal Railways (SBB): financial and strategic contributions.
- Additional Stakeholders: Municipalities in Furttal, public transport operators (VBG, Eurobus), and technology providers (WeRide, ioki, AWS).
Technology and Safety
Vehicles will utilize advanced sensors, software, and remote monitoring to ensure safety and efficiency.
The project will be approved and closely monitored by the Federal Roads Office (FEDRO) to align with national safety standards.
Expected Impact
- Improved Accessibility: Enhance connections to S-Bahn stations and expand public transport offerings in semi-urban and rural areas.
- Operational Efficiency: Reduce costs while maintaining flexibility and reliability.
- Scalable Insights: Develop scalable models for broader applications in Switzerland.
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