The innovative pilot scheme, led by the Greater Cambridge Partnership (GCP), is designed to explore the potential of self-driving bus technology in Cambridge. By integrating cutting-edge automation into bus operations, the trial aims to provide valuable insights into how autonomous vehicles could enhance public transport options in the future.
The GCP has been working closely with its consortium partners and the Government to appoint Whippet, a long-established transport provider in the region, as the operator ensuring that the project can continue move forward.
Cllr Elisa Meschini, Chair of the Greater Cambridge Partnership’s Executive Board, said: "Autonomous vehicle technology has the potential to transform the way people travel in and around Cambridge. It’s great to have Whippet join the Connector project, and their involvement marks another step forward in bringing this exciting technology to our region. Our focus remains on ensuring these trials are delivered safely and provide meaningful insights into how self-driving buses could support public transport in the future."
Ed Cameron, Director at Whippet, said: “As Cambridgeshire’s oldest bus operator, Whippet are delighted to be leading the way in supporting the trial of the very latest technology and the role it may play in the future of public transport in the region. We look forward to working with the Greater Cambridge Partnership and other partners in the consortium to deliver the Connector project”.
The Connector consortium, led by the Greater Cambridge Partnership, also includes Alexander Dennis Ltd, dRISK, Fusion Processing Ltd, Gamma Energy and IPG Automotive. The project is funded by the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CCAV) and industry partners.
The trial will take place in two phases:
- Phase One will see a self-driving bus operating from the Madingley Road Park & Ride site, serving the University of Cambridge’s Cambridge West Innovation District and Eddington.
- Phase Two will introduce two additional autonomous buses running between Trumpington and Babraham Park & Ride sites, serving the Cambridge Biomedical Campus.
All autonomous buses will operate with a safety driver onboard for the duration of the trials to ensure passenger safety and operational oversight.
The Connector project is part of the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CCAV) Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM) programme, which is helping to shape the future of self-driving technologies in the UK. With combined government and industry funding of £84 million for six separate projects, this initiative represents a significant step forward in developing autonomous public transport solutions.
With Whippet now on board, Connector can finalise operational agreements and processes, including driver training and depot management, to ensure the vehicles are fully tested and meet the rigorous safety criteria before public trials begin.
For further information about the Connector project, visit the GCP website.
