Self-driving shuttle continues testing on public roads in Maryland

Local Motors and the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) expanded the testing of the self-driving shuttle, Olli, from GoMentum Station to public roads in National Harbor where it will collect insights to help solve Maryland's transportation challenges such as traffic congestion, accessibility and environmental concerns like pollution.

As Olli completes its route on private and public roads, Local Motors' engineers will collect and analyze data in real-time from scenarios such as intersection crossing and interactions with pedestrians. The route will serve as an alternative transportation option to the residents and employees of National Harbor as well as visiting tourists, carrying them to harbor attractions and commerce centers. Any interested member of the public who is a guest of Local Motors can ride Olli Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. by registering at rideOlli.com to sign a waiver and get a QR Code to board the vehicle.

"Our goal at Local Motors is to create and deliver safe and accessible mobility solutions for local communities," said Local Motors President Vikrant Aggarwal. "By completing real-world testing on public roads in National Harbor, we're compiling the data needed to ensure that Olli meets consumer needs and desires in all scenarios."

Local Motors says this public road testing in Maryland also marks the power of local legislators working with American manufacturers like Local Motors to drive mobility innovation. Under Sen. Chris Van Hollen's (D-MD) leadership, Maryland has positioned itself on the cutting-edge of electric and autonomous vehicle testing, the company said.

"Visiting Local Motors this week gave me the opportunity to see their innovative work first-hand,” Sen. Van Hollen said. “I appreciated the chance to tour their facility and learn more about their efforts to create sustainable, accessible new forms of transportation. I look forward to seeing their continued progress with Olli."

Olli is an environmentally friendly, viable and sustainable transportation option for cities, companies, hospitals, campuses and other locations where people need to move from one place to another. The shuttle features cognitive response technology and sensors, and an obstacle avoidance system, which are provided in partnership with Robotics Research. Robotics Research assisted Local Motors in the mapping of National Harbor.