Inverness Airport has launched a pilot programme featuring autonomous vehicles to transport passengers between the new rail station and the airport terminal.
The trial includes two types of automated people movers: the smaller Aurrigo Auto-Pod at Inverness Airport and the larger Auto-Shuttle at the University of the Highlands and Islands’ Inverness Campus.
Based on its rugged terrain and dispersed population, the Highlands and Islands faces significant transportation challenges.
The pilot aims to address these challenges by enhancing accessibility, reducing travel times and lowering CO2 emissions, thus contributing to Scotland’s NetZero goals.
Graeme Bell, general manager for Inverness Airport said, “We are delighted to act as one of the testing grounds for the autonomous vehicle which is being used to explore the potential of a vehicle connection for passengers travelling between the railway station and the terminal building.”
Passengers can ride the Auto-Pod for approximately 750 metres of the 1.2 km journey from the rail station to the terminal, offering an alternative to walking or taking a paid shuttle bus.
The trial will assess public perception and the feasibility of implementing a low-cost, on-demand connected and autonomous vehicle (CAV) service in the region.
Prof. David Keene, CEO of Aurrigo, added: “Operating at Inverness Airport highlights the diverse environments where Aurrigo’s automated vehicles can truly make an impact.
“The aviation industry as a whole offers countless opportunities for this innovative technology to enhance operations, improve safety, and transform the passenger experience.”
The project, funded by Innovate UK’s Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles’ Commercialising Connected and Automated Mobility competition, involves multiple partners, including the University of Glasgow, Stagecoach North Scotland and Darwin Innovation Group Ltd.
