Oxa, supported by Google, debuts its self-driving tech in Ford E-transits on UK and US roads.
- The Oxford-based company aims to speed up the broader use of autonomous vehicles.
- Ford E-Transits become self-driving through Oxa’s Reference Autonomy Designs.
- Oxa’s technology supports both logistics and passenger services, integrating seamlessly into existing fleets.
- The move marks a significant step in Oxa’s plan to reshape transportation and logistics.
Oxa, a company with backing from Google, has launched its self-driving technology in Ford E-Transit vans, now operational on roads in both Britain and America. This development is part of Oxa’s strategy to quicken the adoption of autonomous vehicles worldwide.
The Ford E-Transit, a well-liked electric van, is converted into a self-driving vehicle using Oxa’s unique Reference Autonomy Designs (RADS). This marks the first instance of mass-production vehicles being modified with this system, highlighting its potential impact on the automotive industry.
The autonomous Ford E-Transit is adaptable for various uses, including logistics and passenger transport. It can be incorporated into existing vehicle fleets, making it a versatile option for businesses looking to update their transport solutions.
Oxa’s CEO, Gavin Jackson, stated, “Making the Ford E-Transit available for autonomous operations is the next step on our journey to deliver safe, scalable, and sustainable autonomous solutions.”
Oxa has a history of providing autonomous software for commercial projects, such as shuttle services in Florida and Belfast, and supporting autonomous vehicle rollouts in the United Arab Emirates. This experience further establishes their credibility in the autonomous tech field.
In a strategic move to enhance their product offerings for industrial customers, Oxa acquired the logistics-focused startup StreetDrone in September.
Oxa’s launch of self-driving Ford vans underscores a pivotal shift in the automotive industry towards autonomous transport.