Teknikimobil.com – Autonomous or self-driving vehicles are one of the main goals of world automotive manufacturers. Renault is no exception as a giant car maker from France. Renault tested the Zoe robotaxis recently. Renault is launching an experimental on-demand robotaxi service as part of a national initiative to accelerate the development of autonomous vehicles. This project is a continuation of Renault’s project which was initiated in the middle of this year.
Renault tested the Zoe robotaxis from 14 October to 8 November 2019. In this test Renault involved 100 people as part of the ‘ Paris-Saclay Autonomous Lab’ project. This service will operate during the day using the Renault Zoe prototype, which is an electric vehicle. Zoe will take the panelists around campus, whether to the laboratory, to lunch, or to their class locations. This service is available from Monday to Friday from 11.00 to 18.00.
In this trial, Renault will use two vehicles at once. One vehicle will be equipped with large gull-wing doors throughout the interior. With which passengers will be able to access the front and rear seats at once. Meanwhile, another car has a larger rear door on the right side. This right door is designed to allow passengers to disembark safely. However, the interior of both cars is the same, namely the front and rear seats facing each other.
Panelists will order pick-up and drop-off services via a special mobile app. With this application they will show the position, destination and number of passengers booked. Passenger pick-up will be guided by the application by directing passengers to the nearest meeting point with the estimated time of vehicle arrival.
The Zoe robotaxis is equipped with a touchscreen that allows passengers to select the soundscape for increased comfort. With this, it is hoped that they can enjoy their trip without feeling anxious or even bored.
The test group represents the general campus population and consists of students, lecturers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and admin staff.