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MnDOT testing driverless bus

Over the next four months, MnDOT will be testing an autonomous shuttle bus.

MONTICELLO, Minn. -- It's electric, driverless, and ready for snow.

"We're going to learn from this pilot testing as well as try and advance the idea that this is the future," said Charlie Zelle, MnDOT Commissioner.

And, the future is now.

Over the next four months, MnDOT will be testing an autonomous shuttle bus, developed by the French company Easy Mile. The "self-driving" bus is already being tracked in 19 countries, and so far, no crashes. Except, this Minnesota test, will be a first.

"But, you know, the reality is a lot of these deployments, a lot of these operations have been in fair weather conditions," said Joe Holmes, a spokesperson for Easy Mile.

You want weather, we got it.

"A day like today is perfect - snow, ice, we'll add salt," said Zelle.

The bus itself holds about 12 people and averages anywhere from 10-15 miles per hour. There's no steering wheel or gas pedal, but there is an Operator, who manages the bus and its pre-programmed route.

Early results from Day One: an unexpected safe stop. Holmes told me the bus was confused, thinking the flurries were a hazard. But, that's why MnDOT is excited about this project and the idea of "self-driving" vehicles.

"Number one, probably safety. We have over 350 fatalities on Minnesota roads every year and we know 94% of the time it's driver-error," said Zelle.

This autonomous shuttle bus is a start; sensors keep it connected to the road and its surroundings. Zelle says it's meant for short distances and could help areas of heavy traffic.

But, when could the bus be ready?

"Well, you know, it's not like there's just one day they appear. There are incremental changes," said Zelle.

Changes that start, first, by studying the effects of Minnesota snow.

After six weeks of testing, the autonomous shuttle bus will be offering free rides along Nicollet Mall during the lead-up to Super Bowl LII: January 26, 27, 28 and February 2, 3.

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