Volkswagen is rolling out an autonomous driving vehicle test fleet with ID. Buzz EVs in Austin.
VW is launching its program with 10 ID. Buzz EVs that are kitted out with an autonomous driving (AD) technology platform that the global Volkswagen Group and tech company Mobileye developed.
Each of the SAE L4 ID. Buzz EVs is outfitted with an AD technology platform that includes cameras, radar, and lidar technology. All of the vehicles will have human drivers at all times throughout the initial pilot.
VW is going to grow its test fleet in Austin over the next three years, and it also plans to expand AD testing operations to at least four more US cities.
Volkswagen Group of America will lead the strategy and business development in the US, and it’s launched a subsidiary called Volkswagen ADMT (that stands for Autonomous Driving Mobility & Transport) to support the AD program rollout, with teams in Belmont, California, and Austin.
Katrin Lohmann, president of Volkswagen ADMT, explained why VW chose Texas’s capital:
We selected Austin as the first US hub, as the city has a track record for embracing innovation and offers a conducive climate for the testing of autonomous vehicles.
VW is aiming to launch AD vehicles in Austin by 2026.
Read more: VW’s rideshare arm using Apex.AI software to enable autonomous robotaxis using ID.Buzz EVs
Photo: Volkswagen
If you’re considering going solar, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from a few installers. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing, check out EnergySage, a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. It has hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high-quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use, and you won’t get sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them.
Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisors to help you every step of the way. Get started here.