Shuttle innovation drives Canadian roads forward

An autonomous vehicle company is bringing cutting-edge transport technology to Canada.

Coventry-based Aurrigo International plc has launched the country’s first all-season, medium-speed autonomous shuttle trial in Kanata, Ontario. 

The project is being delivered with the Kanata North Business Association (KNBA) and in collaboration with Area X.O, operated by Invest Ottawa.

The nine-seater electric Auto-Shuttle® will operate across eight stops in Kanata North Technology Park – the country’s largest tech park – linking businesses, restaurants, community spaces and public transit. 

Built to handle Canada’s harsh winters, the Level 4 shuttle has been tested at Area X.O, Ottawa’s four-season R&D complex and will now run on public roads in mixed traffic at medium speeds. 

Bosses say the trial will provide insights into vehicle performance, municipal safety frameworks and inclusive design, including a visual communication system for deaf and hard-of-hearing riders. 

They add that the lessons learned will help shape Aurrigo’s global airport shuttle projects, ensuring consistent performance across a variety of challenging environments.

David Keene MBE, chief executive of Aurrigo International plc, said: “We have been working with Kanata North Business Association for over six years on how we can effectively bring autonomous vehicles to the streets of Canada.

“This important project accelerates this vision, and we believe we have the real-world technology in place in Auto-Shuttle ® that will prove driverless vehicles can operate safely and effectively in all weather conditions.

“In my opinion, this could be the testbed that unlocks further AV developments in North America and across the rest of the globe.”

Kelly Daize, executive director of the Kanata North Business Association, added:  “Kanata North is home to Canada’s largest technology park and more than 540 companies shaping the future of mobility, connectivity and innovation.

“This project is building on our previous autonomous vehicle’s trials, utilising a commercial motor vehicle, initially in the secure testbed at Area X.O and then moving on public roads in the Kanata North Tech Park in Ottawa.

“It is not only an historic first for Canada – it’s a powerful example of how industry, government and community can come together to test real-world solutions that improve accessibility, advance safety and create a blueprint for the future of transportation in all seasons.”

Sonya Shorey, president and chief executive of Invest Ottawa, added: “Invest Ottawa is honoured to collaborate on this landmark project in our world-class, dual-use innovation hub.

“At Area X.O, our state-of-the-art all-weather R&D complex, founders, companies, regulators and their partners can rigorously test, validate and deploy next-generation technologies in all four seasons. 

“This accelerates safe, market-ready innovations that deliver lasting economic, social and environmental benefits for our citizens, our community and our country.”

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