World’s First Driverless Bus Service to End Due to Low Passenger Numbers

The CAVForth driverless bus service, considered a global pioneer, is slated for discontinuation due to insufficient passenger numbers. Since May 2023, this service has deployed full-size, autonomous buses between Fife and Edinburgh, adhering to the Stagecoach timetable, and was designed to accommodate an estimated 10,000 passengers weekly. The service utilized five single-decker vehicles, each requiring two drivers on board even during autonomous operation, to complete the 14-mile route connecting Ferrytoll park and ride in Fife with the Edinburgh Park train and tram interchange. Nevertheless, the company stated that “passenger adoption” for this government-funded pilot initiative “did not meet expectations,” leading to its scheduled conclusion in February 2025. CAVForth represents a collaborative effort involving Fusion Processing Limited, Alexander Dennis, Edinburgh Napier University, and the University of the West of England. The project’s estimated cost was £6.1m, with over two-thirds of this funding sourced from the UK government’s £100m Intelligent Mobility Fund, supplemented by investments from bus operator Stagecoach, Transport Scotland, and various industry partners. The autonomous buses are equipped with sensors that allow them to navigate designated roads at speeds reaching 50mph. During each journey, they alternate between autonomous and manual modes, with computer control specifically engaged across the Forth Road Bridge and along the segments from the M90 and M8 to the A720 in Edinburgh. A “safety driver” occupies the driver’s seat to oversee the technology, even when the bus is under computer control, while a “bus captain” assists passengers with boarding, ticket purchases, and inquiries. A CAVForth spokesperson expressed pride in having “achieved a world first” and in showcasing the “potential for self-driving technology on a real-world registered timetable.” In a statement, they affirmed: “This groundbreaking trial project has delivered invaluable insights, with partners working together to shape the future of public transport.” They further added: “Although passenger adoption on the AB1 route did not meet expectations, the trial has significantly advanced the understanding of the operational and regulatory requirements for autonomous services, delivering what was expected from this demonstrator project.” The statement concluded by indicating that the project partners intend to investigate new applications for self-driving technology across other regions of the UK.