Edmonton launches autonomous vehicles

EDMONTON Edmonton’s foray into autonomous vehicles began Tuesday with the first crowd of keen commuters putting the driverless vehicle to the test — even if it wasn’t totally perfect.

A temporary system error and subsequent reboot forced the electric autonomous shuttle (ELA) on display at Blatchford to temporarily stall for about 10 to 15 minutes with people inside.

It also had some difficulty in navigating a short course.

The ELA pilot project, which will continue until Nov. 4, allows Edmontonians a chance to experience a ride in a driverless shuttle on closed roadways in three Edmonton neighbourhoods — Blatchford, Chapelle Gardens and Old Strathcona.

“ELA is a fully autonomous shuttle. Which means she does not require a steering wheel, or a gas pedal, or a brake pedal,” said Dan Finley, vice-president of business development for Pacific Western Transportation, which operates the ELA.

“It uses LIDAR (light detection and ranging), it uses GPS, and it also has video cameras, which help it navigate its surroundings.”

The fully electric shuttle can carry 12 passengers and is wheelchair accessible.

Once up and running, it will be one of the first electric autonomous shuttle experiences open to the public in Canada.

Edmontonians can book their ride on ELA at www.ridewithela.ca