Siemens Mobility, together with ViP Verkehrsbetrieb Potsdam GmbH, presented their research project on the world’s first autonomous tram on a 3.7-mile section of the tram network in Potsdam, Germany.
ViP provided a Siemens Combino tram for the project. The experimental vehicle is equipped with multiple lidar, radar and camera sensors to collect data while complex algorithms interpret and evaluate the data triggering actuators to execute a response.
The experimental vehicle runs in the non-restricted area, stopping at regular stops, and simulating door operation. During its demonstration run, it reacted autonomously to trackside signals and to hazards, such as crossing pedestrians and other vehicles.
The goal of the demonstration project is to identify technological challenges of autonomous driving under real-life conditions, leading to further developments.
The experimental tram is the next step to the future: more safety, more comfort.
