In conversation with Atkins

‘Connected automated vehicles are going to be an enabler of mobility as a service’ ‘to provide this sustainable, integrated solution.’- Carol, Atkins

Speaking with senior transport planners from Atkins, Urban Wave learned about the potential of Birmingham city centre’s future. Spokespersons from the leading project management consultancies talked with us about their vision for the future of transport. The focus has largely moved from a carcentric environment in previous years towards sustainable movement and integrated transport. In an ideal world people would cycle to work in the centre and walk around in a safe, fully pedestrianised area. However, commuters come from much further afield with their cars which makes city roads congested and decreases the quality of city life. Driverless cars will provide sustainable transport from rural areas to the centre, their ability to stop to pick up extra passengers on demand will greatly reduce the number of single passenger vehicles in the city centre.

In recent years the focus in Birmingham has been on connecting all types of transportation. The new swift card allows passengers to switch from train to bus to city bike with ease. This theme of integrated mobility is something we at Urban Wave are committed to, driverless cars will provide the connections between public transportation and make city centres safer and less congested.

Public opinion will have a large effect on the implementation of driverless cars. People should feel safe when they get inside the car and be secure in the knowledge that they will arrive at their destination promptly. Improving the visibility of driverless cars on the street and demonstrating their use will encourage this feeling.

Atkins has been fully involved in producing the new legislation to cover driverless cars. This action propels us into the future and begins the discussion of driverless cars as technology just on the horizon.

Claire Herlihy