Residents of Orkney are being invited to try out a self-driving shuttle as part of a study exploring the feasibility of deploying driverless vehicles on the island.
The Kirkwall AutoLink team will host a demonstrator event that will allow residents to experience autonomous technology firsthand in a safe and controlled setting.
The AutoLink project, led by Urban Foresight and supported by Aurrigo and Hitrans, is investigating whether a self‑driving, zero‑emission vehicle could improve connectivity between Kirkwall Harbour and Kirkwall Airport.
With more than 160,000 passengers annually and 90% of airport journeys currently made by private car, autonomous vehicles offer the opportunity to cut emissions, increase accessibility, and strengthen local mobility.
The demonstrator event, which will feature a small Auto-Pod, is designed as a learning exercise, allowing participants to not only observe the self-driving shuttle in action but to understand how the systems work.
Attendees will also be encouraged to share their thoughts and feedback, helping inform future transport planning and decision making in Orkney.
Further information:
https://www.fleetnews.co.uk/news/feasibility-study-into-driverless-shuttles