British start-up Oxa, formerly known as Oxbotica, has introduced autonomous versions of the Ford E-Transit van and minibus equipped with its Oxa Driver software, marking a step forward in the commercialization of self-driving technology.
The Oxford-based firm says these models exemplify its vision of “Universal Autonomy,” where its software stack can power self-driving capabilities in any vehicle.
These E-Transits utilize Oxa’s Reference Autonomy Designs (RADs) – a blueprint enabling automakers to integrate Oxa’s software and sensors on new vehicles.
Each E-Transit features an array of cameras, lidar, and radar for full 360-degree perception and is capable of autonomous operation at speeds up to 35 mph in mixed traffic. Manual controls are included for traditional operation.
The electric, emission-free E-Transit van and minibus are aimed at fleet users in the UK and US, with potential applications in deliveries, logistics, and passenger transport.
Oxa notes that the vehicles retain full interior space despite the added autonomous hardware and have undergone rigorous testing through simulations and real-world conditions.
“Making the Ford E-Transit available for autonomous operations is the next step on our journey to deliver safe, scalable, and sustainable autonomous solutions,” said Gavin Jackson, CEO of Oxa.
