The Automated Bus Consortium, a collective of U.S. transit agencies and several state departments of transportation, has advertised an updated request for proposals (RFP), to procure full-size highly automated transit buses in Dallas.

The RFP signifies an unprecedented endeavor in securing carbon neutrality for automated bus acquisition and widescale implementation of full-sized buses. The State of Michigan is at the forefront as the leading procurement agency, acting on behalf of the Consortium agencies. Spearheaded by AECOM, the Automated Bus Consortium introduces a pioneering strategy aimed at assessing the viability of pilot projects involving automated buses and expediting the adoption of automated transit technologies.

These advanced automated buses will function within pre-established settings while retaining drivers, steering mechanisms, and pedals. Subject to agency procurement determinations, these vehicles will be deployed on pilot routes selected by each participating agency. This strategic move promises significant strides in comprehending the implications of automation. The envisaged pilot routes encompass a range of scenarios, spanning rural and urban deployments, bus rapid transit, bus yard operations, and local bus services. 

The present roster of participants in this program consists of member agencies such as the City of Detroit, Dallas Area Rapid Transit, Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, MetroLINK, Michigan Department of Transportation/Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, Capital Area Transportation Authority, Michigan State University, Huron Transit Corporation, NJ TRANSIT, Trinity Metro, and RATP Dev USA.