The Level 4 autonomous microbus will transport people and stuff.
The self-driving technology is developed with Argo AI.
Volkswagen and Argo AI, in an alliance with Ford, have teamed to develop the best and safest driver-less technology. All three companies are slightly behind some of their competitors when it comes to the technology however many automakers and ride-sharing businesses have backed off.
Volkswagen ID. Buzz | Photo: Volkswagen
The plan is to roll out autonomous Volkswagen ID. Buzz electric vans in specific markets by 2025. The development focus is on densely populated areas as, as Christian Senger, the head of autonomous driving at VW’s van unit, says: “[…] high complexity for the technology, but also offer the basis for intensive use of mobility offerings.” Automotive News reports that testing of Argo AI’s technology is currently underway at six U.S. locations. Trials will expand to a site in Munich this year to further refine the system.
The plan for these vehicles will be the commercial transportation of people and goods. This explains to focus on densely populated regions where this type of technology will be most appreciated. As Argo CEO Bryan Salesky says: “We are going where the demand is, where there is a great business to be built.”
