Vicinity Motor Corp., ADASTEC to deploy autonomous bus at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Vicinity Motor Corp and ADASTEC Corp have partnered up to deploy the first Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant automated bus at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore with ARIBO as an AV advisor supporting the project. The initiative is part of the National Park Service (NPS) Mobility Challenge Program, which aims to develop sustainable mobility solutions for national parks.

"Our collaboration with ADASTEC marks a pivotal moment in public transportation," said Brent Phillips, CEO at Vicinity Motor Corp. "We are excited to witness the first public deployment of the Autonomous Lightning EV, which will significantly enhance mobility solutions in national parks, providing a more sustainable and efficient transportation option for visitors."

The deployment – supported by federal funding – aims to study how the next generation of automated bus technology performs in an outdoor recreational setting. The vehicle will be available for public use and is free to riders with a 7-day, annual or lifetime NPS pass during its deployment period beginning Aug. 14, 2024.

The bus will transport passengers along the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Supported by the state of Michigan, the deployment aims to evaluate advanced automated bus technology in an outdoor recreational environment. Beginning mid-August, visitors can reserve a ride at no cost, though a valid park entrance pass is required. 

The automated bus service will run along the 7.4-mile drive five days a week, eight hours per day, with approximately four round trips daily. The 45-day pilot will operate from mid-August through late September. As a research demonstration project, service details may be adjusted weekly. The bus will stop at Dune Plateau Overlook, Lake Michigan Overlook and North Bar Lake Overlook. 

"Our mission at ADASTEC is to solve modern city mobility problems with automated public transportation," said Dr. Ali Peker, CEO of ADASTEC. "This project highlights our focus on providing clean, 24/7 available, accessible, sustainable transportation for all. By partnering with Vicinity Motor Corporation and leveraging our global deployment experience, we are bringing the first low-floor, electric, automated bus that meets FMVSS and ADA requirements to the market."