Ioki, a leading European provider of digital mobility solutions, has been chosen as the software partner for an ambitious autonomous driving pilot project in Switzerland. This groundbreaking initiative, spearheaded by the Canton of Zurich in collaboration with SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) and the Swiss Transit Lab, aims to transform rural mobility and enhance connectivity to public transportation networks.
Set to launch in the spring of 2025, the project will introduce autonomous vehicles (AVs) in the Furttal region of the Canton of Zurich. The AVs will provide passengers with seamless, efficient transportation, demonstrating the potential of automated driving technology to address mobility challenges in less densely populated areas.
The vehicles selected for the project are Nissan Ariya models, equipped with cutting-edge automated driving technology developed by WeRide, a global leader in autonomous solutions. Passengers will be able to book rides through a dedicated app designed by Ioki. The app will not only handle bookings but also power the underlying on-demand software for route planning and fleet management.
A Technological Leap for Rural Mobility
Ioki’s advanced software is at the heart of this innovative project. The platform calculates the most efficient routes for the autonomous vehicles by analyzing factors such as passenger demand, vehicle availability, and real-time location data. This optimization ensures minimal wait times for passengers while maximizing the operational efficiency of the fleet.
The Ioki app serves as the central interface for users, offering a seamless booking experience. It empowers passengers to request rides at their convenience while the software dynamically allocates vehicles and routes to meet demand effectively. This combination of user-friendly design and sophisticated backend technology positions Ioki as a key enabler of the future of mobility.
Bridging the Gap Between Rural Areas and Public Transit
One of the primary goals of the project is to strengthen connections between rural areas and existing public transportation systems. In many remote regions, access to reliable mobility options remains a significant challenge, limiting economic opportunities and quality of life for residents. By integrating autonomous shuttles with public transit, the initiative seeks to address these gaps and create a more inclusive transportation ecosystem.
Michael Barillère-Scholz, CEO of Ioki, emphasized the transformative potential of this pilot project. “We are delighted to be part of this forward-looking initiative,” he said. “With our on-demand technology, we are making a significant contribution to improving mobility in rural areas. Developing future mobility concepts is essential for driving the digital and sustainable transformation of public transport.”
Pioneering the Future of Public Transport
As the project unfolds, it promises to serve as a model for similar initiatives worldwide. By demonstrating the viability of autonomous vehicles in rural settings, the collaboration between Ioki, the Canton of Zurich, SBB, and the Swiss Transit Lab could pave the way for broader adoption of smart mobility solutions.
This pilot project reflects the increasing focus on sustainable, technology-driven transportation systems that meet the diverse needs of modern society. With Ioki’s expertise and the support of its partners, the initiative is set to redefine the role of autonomous technology in public transportation, offering a glimpse into a more connected and sustainable future.
