Seoul's new self-driving night bus, the A21, represents a significant step forward in the development of autonomous vehicles (AVs) for public transportation. Developed by SUM (Smart YoUr Mobility), the A21 is the world's first self-driving night bus, aiming to address challenges such as driver shortages and late-night transport needs.
Operated at Level 3 autonomy, the A21 still requires some human intervention in certain situations. Safety measures, such as passengers wearing seatbelts and being seated, are in place. Moreover, a driver is present onboard to take control of the bus if necessary, although SUM envisions a future where such intervention won't be needed.
Passenger reactions to the A21 have been generally positive, with many expressing excitement and comfort with the technology. However, there are still concerns about the readiness of self-driving technology for widespread adoption, particularly in unpredictable urban environments.
Graham Currie, a professor of public transport at Monash University, questions the feasibility of fully autonomous vehicles, highlighting the complexity of urban environments and the limitations of current technology. He emphasizes the need for comprehensive planning and investment in public transport systems, rather than relying solely on private AVs.
In South Korea, the government is investing heavily in autonomous driving technologies, with plans to allocate over $1 billion by 2027. However, there are calls for accompanying measures to support workers affected by automation, such as re-education and re-hiring programs for bus drivers and maintenance workers.
Overall, while the A21 represents a promising development in AV technology, there are still challenges and considerations regarding its integration into urban transport systems.
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