The City of Toronto in Canada has signed an agreement with Local Motors by LM Industries to begin a trial of autonomous electric shuttles.

Along with Pacific Western Transportation, Local Motors will provide services with its electric, self-driving shuttle Olli 2.0.

Olli can accommodate around eight passengers and features an accessibility ramp and wheelchair securement system.

The shuttle is equipped with audio and visual announcements to provide rider information. It will also have an on-board safety steward who will monitor the operations and take over when required.

The trial will be carried out for around six to 12 months.

Olli shuttles will provide services from the West Rouge neighbourhood to Rouge Hill GO station and will be coordinated with the schedules of GO Transit.

Toronto stated that the trial is being carried out in coordination with TTC and Metrolinx while Transport Canada provided funding under the Advance Connectivity and Automation in the Transportation System programme.

Toronto Mayor John Tory said: “We are continuing to move our city forward on many fronts, including micro transit, as we manage the effects of Covid-19.

“This innovative project will provide valuable insight while embracing innovation that could help us build a better, more sustainable and equitable transportation network.”

Last October, Local Motors and its partners AAA Northern California and the Contra Costa Transportation Authority planned to test 3D-printed electric self-driving shuttle, Olli.