NEWARK, NJ — The future of travel might just be taking shape in Newark Airport, where a driverless shuttle van has been undergoing testing for the past month. This is not a science fiction scenario or a punchline to a joke, but a serious experiment conducted by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, in collaboration with STV and Perrone Robotics.
The Port Authority showcased this cutting-edge innovation on Thursday, marking a significant step in the intersection of electronics, computers, and the travel industry. The autonomous shuttle van, a 14-passenger Green Power AV-Star, was retrofitted with autonomous driving technology from Perrone Robotics for the pilot project. This technology includes sensors, cameras, and mapping functionalities that allow it to navigate complex routes.
The shuttle was first put to the test on a safety course in a closed parking lot at the airport, where it had to maneuver around simulated car and pedestrian obstacles. After successfully completing this phase, the shuttle was then tested on airport roads during the night between the airport’s P2 Air Train/parking facility and the new Terminal A. This route posed challenges such as arrival roadways, complex merges, and multiple traffic lights. It was also tested during daytime hours in mixed traffic.
This experiment signifies a milestone for New Jersey as it is the first time an autonomous vehicle has been tested on public roads in the state. Despite its autonomous capabilities, safety measures were strictly adhered to. The shuttle did not pick up passengers during these tests and always had a safety driver on board as a backup measure. Additionally, it never exceeded a speed limit of 35 miles per hour.
The pilot project was made possible through a collaborative effort involving the New Jersey governor’s office, the New Jersey Department of Transportation, and the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Other contributors included NJ Transit, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, and local municipalities such as Newark and Jersey City.
The Port Authority has a long-standing history of embracing technological and engineering advancements. This project is no exception and represents a significant leap in the application of programming languages and coding in the travel industry. “For more than a hundred years, the Port Authority has been defined by technological and engineering breakthroughs – and now we’re putting the computerized pedal to the metal,” said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton.
The successful testing of the autonomous shuttle van at Newark Airport opens up new possibilities for the future of travel. With the continued advancement in electronics and computers, combined with sophisticated programming languages and coding, autonomous vehicles could soon become a common sight on our roads.
While it’s still early days, the experiment provides a glimpse into a future where autonomous vehicles could potentially improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability in the travel industry. This pilot project is not just a technological achievement but also a testament to the potential of collaboration between government agencies, private companies, and local municipalities in driving innovation forward.
