StreetDrone, alongside industry partners Chassis Autonomy, Alcon and the University of Surrey, has been chosen by the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CCAV) to spearhead the development of a validated autonomous vehicle platform capable of running without a driver in both on-road and off-highway environments. This transformative initiative, part of £18.5m in government funding to strengthen the capabilities of the UK’s connected and automated mobility supply chain, promises to reshape the landscape of autonomous driving in the United Kingdom and beyond.
The Systems for Autonomy in Fail Operational Environments (SAFE) project represents a significant step forward in autonomous vehicle technology, with a primary focus on enhancing safety and reliability. Its primary objective is to create a fully redundant, fail-operational Drive-by-Wire technology platform, enabling safe autonomous vehicle operations even when a human driver is not present. The project aims to provide a validated vehicle platform as part of deploying coveted SAE Level 4 autonomy, a milestone that will signify a higher degree of vehicle automation than is currently possible in the UK and elsewhere.
StreetDrone, as the lead partner, brings its deep knowledge of autonomous vehicle platforms and technologies to the table, alongside Alcon Components Limited, the University of Surrey, and Chassis Autonomy Limited. Their collective expertise will accelerate the development of SAFE’s Drive-by-Wire technology platform, marking a pivotal moment in the journey towards autonomous driving excellence.
StreetDrone’s CEO Mike Potts expressed the company’s excitement for leading the project, stating, “SAFE represents a milestone in autonomous vehicle development. We are proud to work alongside our partners, as well as CCAV, in creating a platform that pushes the boundaries of safety and reliability in autonomous driving. This project will pave the way for safer, more accessible autonomous transportation for all.”
The UK government has selected StreetDrone, alongside industry partners Chassis Autonomy, Alcon and the University of Surrey, to spearhead a revolutionary project for autonomous vehicle development on UK roads. The Systems for Autonomy in Fail Operational Environments (SAFE) project, part of £18.5m in government funding to strengthen the capabilities of the UK’s connected and automated mobility supply chain, aims to create a fully redundant, fail-operational Drive-by-Wire technology platform for safe autonomous vehicle operations even when a human driver is not present.
The collaborative efforts of the consortium, led by StreetDrone, will accelerate the development of SAFE’s Drive-by-Wire technology platform and set new standards for autonomous driving safety in real-world scenarios. This initiative aligns with the government’s vision for a safer, more efficient, and sustainable transportation future.
StreetDrone’s CEO Mike Potts said: “SAFE represents a milestone in autonomous vehicle development. We are proud to work alongside our partners, as well as CCAV, in creating a platform that pushes the boundaries of safety and reliability in autonomous driving. This project will pave the way for safer, more accessible autonomous transportation for all.”
This transformative initiative promises to reshape the landscape of autonomous driving in the United Kingdom and beyond, positioning the nation at the forefront of this rapidly evolving industry.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.