GILLIG focuses on next generation ADAS and autonomous driving (with RR.AI)

GILLIG and RR.AI, a global leader in autonomous mobility solutions have entered into a development agreement for next-generation advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and SAE Level 4 autonomous vehicle (AV) technology for GILLIG transit buses in North America.

This partnership «will combine RR.AI’s vehicle automation experience and GILLIG’s transit operations expertise to produce stateof-the-art safety and performance capabilities», the bus builder says in a press note.

GILLIG and RR.AI. for ADAS and autonomous driving

The companies will develop and test safety features such as automatic emergency braking, precision docking, and bus yard automation in addition to blind spot detection and pedestrian avoidance. Additionally, the companies «will develop automated driving capabilities which can be deployed for select in-service operations or in the transit depot to help manage electric vehicle charging and reduce vehicle damage.

Henry Crown and Company, which owns GILLIG as well as other transportation businesses, made a strategic investment in Robotic Research, RR.AI’s parent company, as part of the company’s $228 Series-A funding announced last month.

«Bringing advanced vehicle automation technologies across America»

“We see this partnership as a great fit for both our companies,” said GILLIG President and CEO Derek Maunus. “The GILLIG team is passionate about delivering transformative products and solutions that make transportation safe, efficient, and help eliminate roadway congestion. RR.AI is equally committed to those important goals. We’re excited to work with such a technology leader to bring advanced vehicle automation technologies to cities across America.”

“We believe the partnership with GILLIG (and Henry Crown and Company) will improve the safety and wellbeing of drivers, pedestrians, and roadway users all while increasing efficiency for transit authorities and lowering costs,” said Alberto Lacaze, CEO at RR.AI. “This partnership brings together leading innovators in the market today, a best-in-class OEM and best-in-class autonomy technology company.” While GILLIG expects to implement AV and ADAS features across its product lines, the company says its zero-emission battery electric bus will be one of the first to benefit from the advanced technology and capability enhancements. GILLIG’s electric bus features industry leading battery capacity, a Cummins powertrain backed by an unmatched service and support network, telematics, and flexible inductive and overhead charging options.