The Government of Victoria in Australia has trialed the first driverless shuttle bus in the state known as Autonobus, which will be used for transporting students around La Trobe University in Bundoora, Melbourne.

The government has invested A$375,000 ($286,125) for the new Autonobus in order to support the Smarter Journeys Programme, with VicRoads experts providing expertise in road safety and transport systems.

Victoria Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan said: “Automated vehicles will revolutionise the way we travel, that’s why we’re investing in trials that explore ways technology can be used to reduce congestion and keep people safe on our roads.”

“This work builds on our other investments in this dynamic research space – it’s the next step in the transformation of the way we travel.”

“This work builds on our other investments in this dynamic research space – it’s the next step in the transformation of the way we travel.”

The new driverless bus is equipped with advanced sensor systems that can detect objects with fast response times.

Set to run until July next year, the trial will examine all aspects of safety, operations, passenger experience and integration.

During the trial period, the driverless shuttle will be supervised by an operator at all times who can take over if required, and will also monitor the trial of the vehicle and its operations.

The bus will operate along Science Drive at La Trobe University’s Bundoora campus, shuttling travellers from public transport interchanges and carparks.