Keolis, Ericsson demonstrate 5G on autonomous vehicles at UITP 2019

In the context of a growing autonomous vehicle market, Keolis is collaborating with Ericsson, a leader in mobile networks, to use 5G technology to remotely control and supervise autonomous vehicle fleets. The demonstration is part of the ‘Drive Sweden’ Strategic Innovation Program (SIP) whose members – including Keolis and Ericsson – collaborate in trialling 5G technology with automated vehicles.

Keolis showcased the technology jointly with Ericsson for the first time at the June 10-12 UITP World Congress held in Stockholm (Sweden), where visitors could remotely test drive a prototype vehicle made by the KTH Royal Institute of Technology. The vehicle was located at the Ericsson headquarters in Kista 15 kilometres from Stockholmsmässan (Stockholm Exhibition Center), where the event is being held. This demo is an important milestone for Keolis, as it illustrates its expertise in autonomous vehicle operations and enables the Group to enhance its future mobility offer.  

5G technology enables high-speed data transmission with very low latency and high reliability, so the vehicle can be controlled at distance and in real time. 5G also improves NTRIP connection, enabling greater precision in the localisation of the vehicle. To guarantee safety, the vehicle features geo-fencing to prevent collision as well as a dedicated IT system for these demonstrations, ensuring very high cybersecurity standards. A safety driver also remained on board the test vehicle throughout the demonstration.

Based on the results of this initial phase, Keolis’ goal is to deploy 5G capabilities widely aboard autonomous electric shuttles. 

KEOLIS, PIONEER IN AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES OPERATIONS 

Used to complement traditional transport modes, autonomous vehicles offer a mobility solution that is accessible, environmentally friendly, flexible and cost-efficient. A pioneer in shared autonomous mobility, Keolis started trialling autonomous vehicles with its partner Navya in Lyon, France, in September 2016. Since then, Keolis began operating autonomous shuttles in other cities in France including Paris, Rennes and Lille as well as in UK, Australia, Canada, US or Belgium. Since 2016, Keolis has carried transported 160,000 passengers in autonomous vehicles over 70,000 km. 

About Keolis

More than just an everyday transport operator, Keolis is one of the world leaders in shared mobility. As an expert in multimodality, the Group is a partner of public policymakers who want to make mobility an asset for the attractiveness and liveability of their community. Dedicated to passengers and attentive to their individual needs, we work every day to provide more enjoyable, more human ways of getting around.