Public invited to try out electric autonomous shuttle

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.

The vehicle also had some difficulty navigating a short course.

The ELA pilot project, which will continue until Nov. 4, allows residents 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.

Those interested in trying out the new technology can book their ride on ELA at the website www.ridewithela.ca.

PHOTOS: DAVID BLOOM Operator Gerardo Moreno, left, demonstrates the electric autonomous vehicle (ELA) during a pilot project launch at Blatchford Tower on Tuesday. The project, which runs until Nov. 4, offers Edmonton residents a chance to ride in the driverless vehicle. Rides can be booked online at www.ridewithela.ca.

Pacific Western Transportation is offering rides on its electric autonomous vehicle. The shuttle uses light detection and ranging, as well as GPS and video cameras to navigate. It does not have a steering wheel or pedals.