Sunderland, nestled in the Northeast of England, is poised to embark on an exciting journey towards a futuristic approach to mobility with the advent of the Sunderland Advanced Mobility Shuttle (SAMS). Spearheaded by the Sunderland City Council in conjunction with a consortium of key partners including Aurrigo, Stagecoach, Angoka, Newcastle University, Swansea University, and Boldyn Networks, this pioneering project promises to revolutionize the way people traverse the cityscape.
At the heart of the SAMS project are three cutting-edge, self-driving, zero-emission shuttles meticulously crafted by Aurrigo. These autonomous vehicles are purpose-built to ferry passengers along designated routes, linking pivotal hubs such as Sunderland Interchange, the University of Sunderland City Campus, and the Sunderland Royal Hospital. While the safety of passengers is paramount, each shuttle will be manned by vigilant operators, ensuring a seamless and secure journey for all.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the SAMS initiative is its emphasis on cybersecurity. With the aim of developing and showcasing a robust remote supervision protocol, the project seeks to set new standards for safeguarding autonomous transportation systems against cyber threats. This commitment to security underscores the dedication of all involved parties toward ensuring the reliability and integrity of the SAMS service.
Integral to the success of the SAMS project is the implementation of an intelligent transportation corridor, made possible through the deployment of 5G small cells by Boldyn Networks. These technological enablers will facilitate seamless communication and navigation for the autonomous shuttles, ensuring efficient operation and enhancing the overall passenger experience.
The significance of the SAMS project has not gone unnoticed, with the UK government awarding a substantial £3 million grant to fuel its development. Industry partners have matched this funding, resulting in a total investment of £6 million. This financial backing underscores the widespread recognition of the potential transformative impact of the SAMS initiative on urban mobility.
Excitement is palpable as the SAMS shuttle arrives in Sunderland, heralding the imminent dawn of a new era in transportation. Anticipation mounts as the vehicle prepares to navigate the city streets, with its inaugural passenger services slated to commence in the spring. In the lead-up to this momentous occasion, rigorous training programs are underway to equip onboard safety attendants with the requisite skills to oversee and manage autonomous operations effectively.
Furthermore, meticulous preparations are in progress to map out the operational route of the SAMS shuttle, laying the groundwork for optimized navigation capabilities. This meticulous planning underscores the commitment of local authorities to ensuring the seamless integration of autonomous vehicles into the urban landscape, enhancing accessibility and convenience for all residents and visitors.
Patrick Melia, chief executive at Sunderland City Council, expresses optimism about the transformative potential of SAMS, stating, “SAMS represents a significant leap forward in our efforts to embrace innovation and improve the quality of life for our residents.” Similarly, Sunderland’s mayor, Councillor Dorothy Trueman, expresses enthusiasm for the project, heralding it as the dawn of a new era in urban mobility for the city.
Richard Fairchild, chief operations officer at Aurrigo, highlights the collaborative spirit driving the project forward, stating, “Collaborating with technology leaders at Sunderland City Council and other project partners to develop plans into real-world solutions is a significant step forward in research for self-driving vehicles operating on public roads.” His sentiments encapsulate the collective vision and dedication of all involved in shaping the future of mobility in Sunderland.
