First Driverless Shuttle Comes To San Ramon

SAN RAMON, CA — California’s first fully autonomous vehicle made debut on the streets of San Ramon on Tuesday. The electric, low-speed, multi-passenger driverless shuttles can be found in Bishop Ranch. The Contra Costa Transportation Authority is leading a pilot demonstration project testing the vehicles, which are manufactured by EasyMile. The zero-emission bus can accommodate 12 people.

"We will look back on the issuance of this permit as a turning point for autonomous vehicle technology in the great state of California," said CCTA Executive Director Randell Iwasaki. "It is a huge step forward for safely developing a solution to the challenges that prevent people from using public transportation and will transform how we travel in Contra Costa and beyond."

"We are excited to celebrate this milestone with CCTA and Bishop Ranch," said DMV Director Jean Shiomoto. "The California DMV has been working for years to bring this groundbreaking technology to California’s roadways while ensuring safety of the motoring public."

The vehicles are staffed with trained testers, according to a statement from the CCTA. Beginning April 27, commuters will get a chance to try the shuttle.

"Bishop Ranch has always been a site for innovation in Northern California," said Sunset Development CEO Alexander Mehran, Sr. "By granting approval to test EasyMile shuttles on the public roads which bisect through the Bishop Ranch business community, the DMV is enabling us to continue to support innovation that stands to benefit the entire region."

Photo courtesy Contra Costa Transportation Authority