A groundbreaking collaboration between global giants Schaeffler and VDL Groep signals a transformative phase for public transportation with autonomous shuttle. Their combined expertise, showcased at the IAA Mobility show, hints at an electrifying urban transport future.
Unveiling an innovative demonstrator, this partnership meshes leading automotive electrification and steering technologies to offer a fresh narrative for public transport. Mobileye, renowned for its pioneering autonomous driving systems, fortifies the venture with its state-of-the-art solutions.
Global Mobility Undergoing Evolution
Urban Mobility’s canvas is experiencing an exciting overhaul. As cities grapple with congestion and environmental challenges, there’s an evident tilt towards unconventional transport modalities. The appeal of autonomous shuttles lies in their promise of on-demand service, addressing the twin challenges of driver shortages and the pursuit of silent, zero-emission public transport.
Visualize the transformation: consumers summon a shuttle through an app, enjoying a swift, seamless commute. This isn’t futuristic fantasy. Enthusiasm for such modalities resonates across Europe, North America, and select Asian territories.
Mirroring this vision, Willem van der Leegte, President and CEO of VDL Groep, spotlighted the alignment of the three entities and the broader horizon ahead.
Autonomy Elevated: The Pinnacle of Level 4 Driving
VDL Groep and Schaeffler enter this venture armed with their signature innovations. With VDL Groep at the forefront of European electrification and bus manufacturing, Schaeffler’s expertise spans electrified powertrains and steering systems. Their rolling chassis—a harmonious blend of electric powertrain, steer-by-wire systems, and modular batteries—stands as a testament.
Mobileye’s pivotal role enriches this alliance. Their driving platform, brimming with avant-garde sensors, processors, and mapping tools, anchors the shuttles’ impeccable command.
Johann Jungwirth, Senior Vice President of Autonomous Vehicles at Mobileye, conveyed, “Working with Schaeffler and VDL Groep, we have the right strategy and teams to make mobility-as-a-service a reality in the very near future.”
Horizon Beckons
Germany is poised to embrace these shuttles, benefiting from its trailblazing legislation welcoming Level 4 autonomous vehicles.
Beyond this debut, Schaeffler and VDL Groep visualize an expansive realm for transport operators. With dialogues in motion with potential collaborators, the aspiration is to initiate mass production by 2030 at VDL’s Mobility Innovation Centre, Netherlands.
This alliance, beyond mere technological convergence, resonates as a symphony of global visions. The world watches, anticipating the new trajectory Schaeffler, VDL Groep, and Mobileye are set to craft for mobility’s future.
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