Oxa and eVersum Revolutionize Belfast with Self-Driving Shuttles

Envision a city where self-driving shuttles effortlessly transport you to your destination in comfort, safety, and with an eco-friendly touch. This futuristic vision is quickly becoming a reality for Belfast, the thriving capital of Northern Ireland. In a groundbreaking initiative, Belfast is on track to introduce a pioneering self-driving shuttle service that promises to redefine public transport and tourism in the region.

Known as the Harlander project, this ambitious venture is the brainchild of Oxa, a leading self-driving vehicle software developer, and eVersum, a specialist in electric commercial vehicles and passenger transport solutions. Together, they're poised to unveil autonomous shuttles with a capacity of up to 40 passengers. These shuttles will serve Belfast's bustling Innovation District in the Belfast Harbour Estate, as well as key tourist attractions including the iconic Titanic Belfast exhibition.

The Harlander project plays a pivotal role in Belfast's sustainable transport strategy, addressing the surge in annual visitor numbers from 3.6 million to a projected 5.6 million by 2035 due to significant investment programs. These self-driving shuttles offer a practical, accessible, and environmentally-conscious alternative to conventional buses and cars. By curbing traffic congestion and emissions, they elevate mobility and enhance the quality of life for both residents and visitors.

Powering these shuttles is the Oxa Driver, a comprehensive suite of high-performance software components that can be seamlessly integrated into any vehicle, enabling secure and efficient autonomous operation. Meanwhile, eVersum's eShuttle represents a breakthrough in modern urban and last-mile public transportation. This mid-sized, fully accessible shuttle bus operates quietly and incorporates cutting-edge zero-emission technology.

Each shuttle in Belfast's fleet will be manned by a human safety operator and can accommodate up to 20 seated passengers and 40 in total, including standing room. The closed operational phase is set for the first quarter of 2025, before opening to passengers.

Oxa and eVersum envisage that the Belfast initiative will serve as a blueprint for innovative public transport networks across the UK and globally. These networks will leverage self-driving systems that are safer, more efficient, and more adaptable than current solutions.

In October 2023, Oxa and eVersum announced their partnership to conceive, develop, and manufacture shared autonomous passenger vehicles. This collaboration addresses the growing demand for flexible, low-carbon public transport options, especially as urban populations expand and road congestion escalates.

The Harlander project is an extraordinary undertaking backed by the UK government, set to propel eVersum's growth. Through Harlander, in tandem with Oxa, they are laying the groundwork for the commercialization of autonomous passenger transport across the UK and beyond.

Belfast, a city steeped in history, culture, and innovation, is poised to embrace the future of mobility with self-driving shuttles. The Harlander project is a testament to the vision and cooperation of Oxa and eVersum, heralding a transformation that will turn Belfast into a smart, sustainable city that dazzles both day and night.