Australia’s first fully electric driverless shuttle bus has commenced trials on the roads of Perth.

The new full electric driverless shuttle bus has been developed by Navya SAS, a French company specialising in intelligent transport systems.

The shuttle bus is designed to carry up to 15 passengers and has the ability to reach a top speed of 45kmh with an average speed of 25kmh.

"This trial is a great example of how innovation can improve service delivery to the community and reduce our environmental footprint."

Initially, the bus will follow a 25 minute trial route over three weeks between Sir James Mitchell Park and the Old Mill in South Perth.

The Liberal National Government has been working closely with the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) to ensure that the driverless vehicle is compliant with the road and vehicle safety standards of Australia.

Innovation Minister Bill Marmion said that the State Government is seeking to have the best integrated and intelligent transport services and solutions for Western Australia (WA).

Marmion said: "WA is leading Australia in trialling this innovative automated vehicle technology.

"The RAC recently completed off-road trials and can now test this technology on an approved on-road route in Perth's metropolitan area.

"This trial is a great example of how innovation can improve service delivery to the community and reduce our environmental footprint.

"The learning’s from this trial will create an enhanced framework for other trials of automated driving technology in the future.

“Adoption of new technology increases the need for other specialist roles such as mechanics, programmers and technicians. Boosting innovation across all Western Australian industries is crucial to a dynamic, thriving economy, and for securing our reputation as a great place to live and innovate."