Innovation at AAA: Self-Driving Shuttle Debuts in Las Vegas

It may seem like something from a science-fiction movie, but the age of driverless vehicles is upon us. AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah is sponsoring the nation’s first self-driving shuttle geared specifically for the public.

Launched in November, the all-electric shuttle uses autonomous vehicle technology and will provide free rides to a quarter-million Las Vegas residents and many more visitors. The eight-person shuttle will run a 0.6-mile loop around the Fremont East area of downtown Las Vegas, with three designated passenger stops. The shuttle will operate in mixed-flow traffic, interacting with traffic signals and other road users. The test program, in partnership with transportation-company Keolis, will run over the course of the year.

The shuttle comes equipped with LiDAR (laser) technology, a GPS unit and cameras. All passengers must wear seat belts. Safety features also include the ability to automatically and immediately stop in the event of a pedestrian crossing in the vehicle’s path. The shuttle will also be fully integrated with “smart-city” infrastructure, so it will communicate with traffic signals to improve safety and traffic flow.

The pilot program will help AAA understand how the shuttle interacts in a live traffic environment, including with drivers, pedestrians and cyclists. Shuttle passengers won’t completely go it alone, as a Keolis safety attendant will be on board to supervise the operation and communicate with travelers.

A 2017 AAA survey found three-quarters of U.S. drivers are skeptical of self-driving cars, despite the significant potential benefits to safety. As part of the shuttle test, AAA will also survey riders on their experience to better understand why many people remain wary of driverless technology and whether a personal experience changes their perception. About 1.3 million people die each year on the world’s roads, and between 20 million and 50 million sustain nonfatal injuries. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration claims human error caused more than 94 percent of these serious crashes.

This test program is part of AAA’s overall commitment to improving traffic safety for all, whether they’re being transported by a self-driving vehicle or sharing the road with one as a motorist, cyclist or pedestrian. AAA is working with AV technology providers, vehicle manufacturers, transportation agencies and policymakers to ensure safety is a top priority as more self-driving vehicles appear on the road.