Researchers at University of Waterloo (Ontario, Canada) trial driverless shuttle

A small bus that’s becoming a familiar sight at the University of Waterloo could represent a giant leap in self-driving transit. That’s what Amir Khajepour, an engineering professor and Canada Research Chair in Mechatronic Vehicle Systems, is hoping. He’s the lead researcher on the WATonoBus project, which is using the university’s main campus as a testing ground.

The 2.7-kilometre loop features traffic lights, delivery trucks, even meandering Canada geese and – in non-pandemic times – countless jaywalking pedestrians. In recent months, the aqua-coloured WATonoBus has been navigating such obstacles along the route at a top speed of 20 km/h, and making five stops along the way, guided by technology developed in Dr. Khajepour’s lab.