Olympic park testing electric, self-driving shuttles for tourists

Olympic park tests self-driving shuttle The unique little shuttle buses travel around the site, not grabbing attention for where they go, but how autonomous they are.

The Olympic Park is testing some new shuttle buses – two little red rovers - around the site.

But what’s drawing everyone’s attention is not where they take visitors, but how.

A two-year pilot project will evaluate if the electric, autonomous vehicles can improve the tourist experience.

They’re adapted for wheelchairs and strollers, and operate on a route that’s pre-programmed.

“Basically, it’s a big computer on wheels,” explained Emile Cadieux, who works for Transdev.

The shuttles have enough room for 12. With on-board display screens, and a smooth ride, you soon forget there’s no chauffeur.

There is a human operator on board, but he’s there as a greeter, and to work out any kinks along the route.

The shuttles are manufactured in France, and travel at maximum speeds of 15 kilometers per hour.

If the pilot project is a success, 10 driverless shuttles may one day operate even in regular traffic around the Olympic Park.