Driverless bus service axed due to low passenger numbers

The UK’s first autonomous bus service is being cancelled because of a lack of passengers.

Stagecoach has run a fleet of self-driving buses on a 14-mile route between Fife and Edinburgh since the launch of the CAVForth project in May last year.

However it is understood the service, which still requires two members of staff on board, is to be pulled over a lack of travellers.

CAVForth was a collaboration between Fusion Processing Limited, Alexander Dennis, Edinburgh Napier University and the University of the West of England.

The project was part-funded by the UK Government’s Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles.

A spokesperson for CAVForth said: “We are proud to have achieved a world-first with our CAVForth autonomous bus service, demonstrating the potential for self-driving technology on a real-world registered timetable in east Scotland.

“This groundbreaking trial project has delivered invaluable insights, with partners working together to shape the future of public transport.

“While the service will conclude in February 2025, it has provided a wealth of learnings that will inform the continued development of autonomous technology in the UK.

“Although passenger adoption on the AB1 route did not meet expectations, the trial has significantly advanced the understanding of the operational and regulatory requirements for autonomous services, delivering what was expected from this demonstrator project.

“The partners remain committed to exploring new opportunities for self-driving technology in other areas across the UK, ensuring that this exciting innovation can play a transformative role in future transport networks.

“We sincerely thank everyone who supported and participated in this journey.”