The Sunderland Advanced Mobility Shuttle (SAMS) initiative has taken a major leap forward by partnering with Oxa, a leader in autonomous technology. Oxa’s state-of-the-art driverless Ford E-Transit bus is set to debut in Sunderland by early 2025, marking a key milestone in the city’s journey to becoming a technological trailblazer.
Advancing Urban Mobility
The SAMS project showcases the potential of autonomous transport to enhance connectivity within Sunderland. Designed to link residents with critical destinations efficiently, the initiative aligns with Sunderland’s mission to create a smarter and more sustainable urban environment. By implementing cutting-edge solutions, the city aims to serve as a model for the integration of advanced transport systems worldwide.
Michael Mordey, leader of Sunderland City Council, highlighted the initiative’s broader objectives: “This project is about more than just testing innovative technology. It’s about providing sustainable, high-quality transport that improves daily life for our residents. Oxa’s expertise will play a crucial role in achieving a modern, environmentally friendly transport system for Sunderland.”
Oxa’s Expertise in Autonomy
Oxa brings years of experience delivering autonomous vehicle solutions for both public transit and industrial sectors. Their groundbreaking approach is set to redefine how public transport operates, focusing on efficiency and accessibility.
Gavin Jackson, Oxa’s CEO, expressed excitement about the collaboration: “This partnership represents a significant step in transforming public transport across the UK. We’re thrilled to contribute our technology to a project that prioritizes both innovation and community benefits. Sunderland is setting a new standard for urban mobility, and we’re eager to be part of this journey.”
Collaborative Effort and Funding
Led by Sunderland City Council, the SAMS project brings together a consortium of public and private organizations. Supported by the Centre for Connected & Autonomous Vehicles (CCAV) and Innovate UK, and with additional backing from Zenzic, this initiative emphasizes the power of collaborative efforts in driving technological advancements.
A Greener Future for Public Transport
Set to launch in 2025, the SAMS project promises to revolutionize public transport in the UK. By adopting autonomous technology, Sunderland is enhancing connectivity and reducing environmental impact, aligning with global sustainability objectives.
Through this partnership with Oxa, Sunderland underscores its commitment to leveraging innovation for the betterment of its community. The initiative reflects a forward-thinking approach to urban mobility, laying the groundwork for a smarter, greener future.
