EV Bus Company to Test Automated Service

Proterra Inc. says it is launching a pilot program to test a self-driving electric bus on the campus of the University of Nevada in Reno.

During the first phase of the program, the Proterra electric bus will operate on city routes to sense and gather data. The second phase will focus on data mining, communications and software development.

Proterra is working with University of Reno researchers to develop algorithms that will predict traffic patterns and other infrastructure issues to allow automated buses to better adapt to changing conditions. This includes congestion, passenger usage, poor road conditions and emergency response.

The partners also are working on various mapping, object detection, “recognition of intent” and sensor fusion technologies. At the end of the pilot program, Proterra aims to license and commercialize the technology.

Other participants in the state-backed program include the Nevada Dept. of Motor Vehicles, Governor’s Office for Economic Development, Fraunhofer Institute for Transportation and Infrastructure Systems, and the Nevada cities of Reno, Sparks and Carson City. The Regional Transportation Commission of Washoe County will operate the buses.

Proterra has sold more than 300 electric buses to dozens of transit authorities since it began business in 2004. The company plans to triple production at its factory in Greenville, S.C., and is opening a new plant near Los Angeles.