Free trips on the futuristic shuttle, an EasyMile EZ10, will travel from the lagoon and continue along John Nugent Way from Monday February 26 until Saturday March 3.
Ipswich Mayor Andrew Antoniolli said the demonstration of the electric self-driving shuttle technology was an exciting component of the city’s Smart City program.
“The city’s credentials as an innovation hub have been recognised globally,” Mayor Antoniolli said.
“Ipswich was recently the only Australian city to be included in the world’s top7 Intelligent Communities of the Year, which is a culmination of technology-based activities throughout the city.
“The theme for this year’s awards was Humanising Data, and this trial is very much about finding solutions to make a more liveable place.
“As a Smart City, driverless technology is a long-term transport prospect, and one we are certainly investigating.”
The EZ10:
• Has been designed to cover short pre-defined routes. Embedded and localisation technologies designed by EasyMile help it navigate the route.
• Uses the latest technology to safely respond to environmental changes like moving pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles.
• Can carry up to 12 people (6 seats and 6 standing positions).
• Is accessible to people with disabilities thanks to an access ramp.
EasyMile spokesperson Simon Pearce said anybody was welcome to ride the shuttle during set public demonstration times.
“The loop along John Nugent Way takes about 5 minutes, so it’s a great way to get a taste for what the future of public transport might be like,” Mr Pearce said.
Economic Development and Digital City Committee chairman Cr Paul Tully said Ipswich had already installed electric car chargers on smart light poles, and was about to start Australia’s largest cooperative intelligent transport system program.
“This program will fit about 500 cars with the most advanced technology to help avoid accidents, be aware of traffic congestion in real-time, keep cars to speed limits, warn drivers if bicycle riders and pedestrians, and help drivers brake safely,” Cr Tully said.
“This trial of the EasyMile shuttle is yet another example which shows that companies are putting their faith in Ipswich as a test bed for the world’s latest and best technology.”
EZ10 public demonstrations will be held from Monday to Thursday (10am-12pm, 12.30pm-2.30pm and 3pm-4pm), Friday (10am-12pm) and Saturday (9am-11am).
For more information go here.