Mercedes-Benz presented autonomous Future Bus with CityPilot
Staff Writer |
Mercedes-Benz is showing the technology platform, the Mercedes-Benz Future Bus with CityPilot that enhances the attractiveness of the city bus as a means of transport.
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The technology of the CityPilot in the Mercedes-Benz Future Bus is based on that of the autonomously driving Mercedes-Benz Actros truck with Highway Pilot presented two years ago.
It has however undergone substantial further development specifically for use in a city bus, with numerous added functions. The CityPilot is able to recognize traffic lights, communicate with them and safely negotiate junctions controlled by them. It can also recognize obstacles, especially pedestrians on the road, and brake autonomously.
It approaches bus stops automatically, where it opens and closes its doors. And not least, it is able to drive through tunnels.
Just under a dozen cameras scan the road and surroundings, while long and short-range radar systems constantly monitor the route ahead. There is also a GPS system. Thanks to data fusion, all the data received create an extremely precise picture and allow the bus to be positioned to within centimeters.
This already works in practice, as demonstrated by the world premiere of the CityPilot on an exacting route covering almost 20 km, with a number of tight bends, tunnels, numerous bus stops and involving high speeds for a city bus.
This semi-automated city bus improves safety, as it relieves its driver's workload and nothing remains hidden from its cameras and radar systems. It improves efficiency, as its smooth, predictive driving style saves wear and tear while lowering fuel consumption and emissions.
With its smooth and even rate of travel it also improves the comfort of its passengers.
The CityPilot is presented in the Mercedes-Benz Future Bus as a technology platform. The around twelve meter long solo bus based on the globally best-selling Citaro is a completely new departure in terms of exterior and interior design.
Its harmonious lines and asymmetrical contours take their lead from city architecture. Whether with its design, lighting, door layout or information systems – the unique Mercedes-Benz Future Bus fully lives up to its name.
The same applies to the interior, the open-plan design of which takes its lead from city squares and parks. The passenger compartment is truly a passenger's dream. It is divided into three zones for different lengths of stay. Designer seats are loosely arranged along the walls in each zone.
Innovative grab rails reflect the park-like theme by branching upwards like trees towards the two-tone ceiling. The ceiling lighting resembles a leaf canopy. Operators are able to relay information and entertainment via large monitors in the middle segment of the passenger compartment.
The completely newly designed cockpit is an integral part of the interior space. The driver receives the information he/she requires from a large screen with an innovative display. ■