Australia’s very first Smart Ute has hit the road in automated mode, with the retrofitted Ford Ranger now navigating the streets around Dubbo in western NSW.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said it is an exciting step forward for automated vehicle technology with safety and future connectivity for regional communities front and centre of the trial.
“It is fantastic to see our Smart Ute technology reach this on-road milestone as the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government invests in inventive ways to keep our State moving forward,” Mr Farraway said.
“The Dubbo Smart Ute Trial is part of our big-picture exploration of how automated vehicle technology can deliver more reliable and accessible transport options.
“Connected and automated vehicles have the potential to transform travel on our roads and be a significant contributor to the regional economy by enhancing the lives of our communities, creating new market opportunity for businesses, and increasing employment opportunities”.
The Smart Ute undertook robust testing at Transport for NSW’s Future Mobility Testing and Research Centre at Cudal near Orange; the only government-run centre of its kind in the southern hemisphere. It uses technology including radars, lidar and cameras to collect data and recognise and respond to obstacles along its path.
Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders said the trial along with the Future Mobility Testing and Research Centre places the Central West and Orana region on the global stage as a regional hub for future transport technology.
“It’s great that Dubbo will host Australia’s first Smart Ute trial of its kind in the heart of regional NSW, the hub of automated vehicle technology in regional Australia,” Mr Saunders said.
“This trial sets our sights on how autonomous vehicles can safely, efficiently, and reliably help locals and visitors move about the region.
“The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is getting on with the job of building the infrastructure that matters and rolling out innovative transport solutions that keep our State moving forward.
“Locals and visitors will be able to spot the ute travelling sections of its pre-mapped journey between Dubbo CBD, Dubbo Regional Airport and Taronga Western Plains Zoo as it navigates parts of Whylandra, Victoria, Macquarie and Church streets and low speed sections of the Newell Highway.”
A trained operator will be in the driver’s seat at all times and ready to manually take control of the vehicle if it encounters road conditions the technology has not yet learned to respond to.
The Smart Ute trial is a partnership between Transport for NSW, autonomous vehicle company Conigital, NRMA, Dubbo Buslines, mobile app developer Liftango, QBE and Dubbo Regional Council.
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