The RAC Intellibus has started a new life at South Metropolitan TAFE, where it will provide the next generation of automotive professionals hands-on experience in the future of mobility.
Last year, the RAC Intellibus trial finished after nearly seven years operating on public roads, where it highlighted how automated travel can be safe and accessible for the entire community.
It was Australia’s first and longest-running public trial of a driverless vehicle, with more than 38,000kms travelled, and over 28,000 passengers experiencing automated vehicle technology first-hand.
RAC Group Executive Social and Community Impact Terry Durant said the RAC Intellibus would continue to educate Western Australians at its new home.
“This RAC Intellibus we are donating to South Metropolitan TAFE was used for extensive training and testing as part of our autonomous vehicle program,” Ms Durant said.
“It seems fitting it will now be used to provide hands-on experience for students, giving them a deeper understanding of how these vehicles are built and operated.”
“We’re proud the RAC Intellibus will live on and continue to help Western Australians imagine the possibilities of transport.”
The fully electric RAC Intellibus will find its new, permanent home at the Kwinana Campus workshop, to be used by light automotive trades students.
It will serve as a static demonstration vehicle to help students learn about the fundamentals of electric vehicles and autonomous vehicle technology.
“The RAC Intellibus helped our community and policymakers learn about this emerging technology and what it can offer in years to come,” Ms Durant said.
“Increasing levels of electrification and automation are becoming more common in our cars and across our transport network, and the RAC Intellibus will allow apprentices, trainees and students at South Metropolitan TAFE to get under the hood and explore much of the technology that enables it.”
A second RAC Intellibus is also available for public viewing at the Motor Museum of Western Australia.
ENDS
Media contact: Laura Gardiner, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
