Furttal Automated Mobility Pilot

The Furttal Pilot Project is an innovative initiative led by the Swiss Transit Lab (STL) in collaboration with the Canton of Zurich and Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). The project aims to enhance local mobility services by introducing automated vehicles  as a complement to the existing transport network in the Furttal region near Zurich. It represents an effort to gain insights into the future framework conditions for automated services on the road in Switzerland, focusing on practical, scalable, and cost-effective operations. These findings should help actively shape the mobility and public transport of the future.

Project Goals

1. Demonstrate Value: Showcase the benefits of automated vehicles in enhancing the local mobility system.
2. Gain Operational Insights: Gather data on service models, costs, and operations to establish frameworks for future automated mobility solutions.
3. Shape the Future Market: Foster a regulatory and operational ecosystem conducive to the integration of automated services .

Key Features 

The pilot operation will begin in Otelfingen, Boppelsen, Hüttikon and Dänikon. The trial area is to be gradually extended to the municipalities of Buchs, Dällikon and Regensdorf.  Vehicles will function as connections within the region as well as train feeders and provide different offeringy starting with on-demand transport options. Scheduled connections are planned for a later stage.

???? At the start of the pilot project, up to four automated passenger cars will be circulating in the Furttal region so that the population can take advantage of the service. 
???? In 2026, the fleet will be supplemented by minibuses.

Phased Implementation 

• 2024: Setup and technology familiarization. 
• 2024-2027: Public operations with passengers. 
• Post-2027: Scaling options incl. expanding service areas based on demand and insights. 

Project Partners 

• Swiss Transit Lab (STL): project execution.
• Canton of Zurich: financial and strategic contributions.
• Swiss Federal Railways (SBB): financial and strategic contributions.
• Additional Stakeholders: Municipalities in Furttal, public transport operators (VBG, Eurobus), and technology providers (WeRide, ioki, AWS). 

Technology and Safety 

Vehicles will utilize advanced sensors, software, and remote monitoring to ensure safety and efficiency. 

The project will be closely monitored by the Federal Roads Office (FEDRO) to align with national safety standards. 

Expected Impact 

• Improved Accessibility: Enhance local mobility services as well as connections to S-Bahn stations and expand public transport offerings in semi-urban and rural areas.
• Operational Efficiency: Understand and reduce costs while maintaining flexibility and reliability.
• Scalable Insights: Evaluate and develop scalable models for broader applications in Switzerland.