Australia's Redland City Council and Queensland, Australia's peak motoring body RACQ have announced that Karragarra Island on Redlands Coast will be the first location in Queensland to test a driverless bus. 

According to Mayor Karen Williams, the Council began looking into new technologies because better transportation options was a priority for residents.  

“Redlands Coast has unique transport challenges that need innovative solutions, which is why we’re partnering with RACQ and Easy Mile on the Smart Mobility trial,” Williams says.

“It’s exciting the first ever long-term trial of the technology in Queensland will be held on our Southern Moreton Bay Islands, providing an important step towards addressing long standing transport needs.”

A product of EasyMile, the shuttle that will be used during the trial is known as the RACQ Smart Shuttle. It will run for six months starting in November, providing residents with free rides during that time period. An operator will be on board the shuttle to answer any questions and take feedback. 

According to RACQ’s Dr. Rebecca Michael, the shuttle has a maximum speed of 20 kilometers per hour and uses sensors to navigate. The shuttle is also equipped with detection lasers that can identify obstacles within 40 meters before stopping safely or slowing down as needed. It also has an automated ramp to provide access as needed.

“We’re very excited to be introducing Queenslanders to the future of public transport with the RACQ Smart Shuttle, which aims to explore new transport options and address gaps in our public transport system,” Dr. Michael says.

“Karragarra Island currently has no public transport at all, so this trial is expected to make life much easier for residents and visitors who previously had to rely on private vehicles.”

The driverless bus trial is a joint initiative between the Club and Redland City Council, with the support of Council of Mayors SEQ.