ZF and Beep to partner on autonomous shuttle for U.S. market

ZF unveiled its next iteration of autonomous shuttle in urban environments and mixed traffic at the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show, which was held in Las Vegas, Nev. ZF says the next generation of its autonomous shuttle will complement the existing model, and the company has executed an agreement with Beep, Inc., that will see ZF’s autonomous transport system combined with Beep’s mobility services and service management platform.

ZF says the new autonomous Level 4 shuttle is equipped with state-of-the-art sensor technology consisting of LiDAR, radar, camera and audio systems that provide precise environmental detection. This is complemented by other technology such as the ZF ProConnect connectivity platform, which enables communication with the infrastructure and the cloud, as well as the ZF ProAI supercomputer where data converge.

"In order to reduce traffic-related emissions in metropolitan areas, a reduction in motorized individual transport and a simultaneous expansion of more sustainable, efficient, comfortable and affordable mobility options are required," said Torsten Gollewski, executive vice president, Autonomous Mobility Systems at ZF.

“We are excited to partner with ZF to bring their next shuttle generation to market in the United States,” said Joe Moye, CEO,Beep. “ZF’s full suite of shuttle services, its U.S. partner network and its automotive-grade vehicle complement our turnkey mobility networks and autonomous services technology platform. This shuttle will allow us to continue to pursue our vision of extending mobility equity and reducing carbon emissions, expanding our use cases while meeting industrial requirements for vehicle service life, performance and safety.”

ZF says the next-generation shuttle can cover up to 80 miles in pure electric mode and will operate at an initial maximum speed of 25 miles per hour (mph), in further development of 50 mph. The shuttle offers a total passenger capacity of 22, with up to 15 seated. The vehicle conforms to requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and includes an automatic ramp and wheelchair restraints. The interior is customizable in layout and trim level. With front- and rear-wheel steer and kneeling functions, distance to the sidewalk is reduced to a minimum when approaching a stop. This enables the shuttle to dock precisely and provide barrier-free boarding and disembarking.