Wedoany.com Report on Feb 3rd, Residents of the Orkney Islands are invited to participate in a feasibility study on autonomous vehicles and experience the self-driving Auto-Pod firsthand. The event, scheduled for February 9th and 10th at the Cross Crown Square in Kirkwall, aims to bring autonomous driving technology to life and collect operational data for the Kirkwall AutoLink project.
The project primarily explores whether an autonomous, zero-emission shuttle service can provide a cleaner, more reliable, and convenient transportation option between Kirkwall Harbour and Kirkwall Airport, thereby benefiting local residents, workers, and visitors. Led by Urban Foresight and supported by Aurrigo and HITRANS, the AutoLink study focuses on how to improve connectivity between these two locations using autonomous technology.
Data shows that over 160,000 passengers use this route annually, with 90% of airport trips currently relying on private cars. Autonomous vehicles offer new possibilities for reducing emissions, enhancing transportation accessibility, and increasing flexibility for local travel. This demonstration will feature a small Auto-Pod, directly addressing the curiosity and caution expressed by residents in earlier surveys.
The event is designed as an interactive learning experience. Participants will not only observe the Auto-Pod in operation but also learn how its systems work. Organizers encourage attendees to share their views and feedback, which will help inform future transportation planning and decision-making in Orkney. Activities include: allowing the public to get up close and experience autonomous vehicles through Aurrigo's Auto-Pod; gathering user perspectives on the technology; and supporting decisions for subsequent trial designs, regulatory preparations, and the deployment of larger-scale shuttle buses.
Residents can currently book their experience online. Beyond the technical demonstration, the study combines a detailed feasibility assessment with community engagement to ensure that autonomous vehicle services can meet local needs. Extensive interaction with residents, businesses, and transport operators during the research process ensures community input directly shapes the development of autonomous transport in Orkney.
Callum White, Head of Zero Emission Mobility at Urban Foresight, stated: "This demonstration gives Orkney residents the opportunity to engage with autonomous technology up close. Participants can ask questions, understand how the vehicles operate, and share their views in a way that directly influences the development of autonomous transport in rural areas."
Dr. Richard Fairchild, Chief Operating Officer of Aurrigo, added: "We are delighted to bring autonomous vehicles to Orkney to demonstrate how this technology can operate safely and effectively in a remote environment. Such engagement activities are crucial for building public trust and shaping the future of autonomous transport."
