TIER IV and NTRO are promoting the rollout of autonomous buses in the Australian and New Zealand markets. The 15-passenger EV buses to be provided are equipped with autonomous driving systems, with the aim of improving the safety and sustainability of local public transport.
TIER IV announced that it had begun working with NTRO and would proceed in stages with the introduction of autonomous buses in the Australian and New Zealand markets. The two organisations aim to provide new options for local public transport by combining TIER IV's autonomous driving technology with NTRO's experience in field trials.
The bus is a 15-passenger electric vehicle equipped with an autonomous driving system developed by TIER IV. It was named Rita in honour of Rita Excell, who worked with ARRB to conduct field trials of autonomous vehicles.
NTRO is a government-affiliated organisation promoting innovation and practical solutions in the transport sector, and plays a central role in transport research and policy development in Australia and New Zealand. TIER IV began working with NTRO in March 2024.
TIER IV develops open-source software for autonomous driving, centred on Autoware, and is promoting the democratisation of autonomous driving through its platform and service offerings. NTRO is responsible for advancing innovation and sustainability in public transport.
TIER IV and NTRO are jointly handling communications on the matter, and further developments are being watched closely.