SporTran Transit has unveiled a Karsan e-JEST autonomous bus as part of a pilot programme in Shreveport, Louisiana, introducing self-guided public transport technology to the region.
The Evolve autonomous vehicle was presented at a demonstration event in Shreveport on 1 September, where members of the public were able to see the vehicle operate and hear from local and transport leaders about the project.
The initiative is designed to test Louisiana’s first public transit vehicle capable of self-guided operation. During the pilot, the vehicles will remain under human supervision, with staff responsible for monitoring safety and performance and assisting passengers when required.
SporTran CEO Dinero’ Washington said:This event represents much more than the unveiling of a new vehicle. It reflects years of collaboration, innovation, and investment, positioning Louisiana as a leader in the future of public transportation. We’re honored to showcase what’s possible when vision and partnership come together here in Shreveport-Bossier.
The programme has received almost 1 million USD in funding through the US Department of Transportation’s Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Grant programme. The funding is supporting workforce training, technology development and operational readiness for electric and autonomous transit.
SporTran is working with the Shreveport-Bossier African American Chamber of Commerce on the initiative, with the partnership also focused on workforce development, training and improving accessibility.
The autonomous vehicles will be tested in two areas of Shreveport: the Downtown Entertainment District and the Medical Corridor.
The selected routes are intended to support connections to hospitals, employment locations, restaurants, entertainment venues and other destinations.
The pilot will allow SporTran and its partners to assess how autonomous vehicles perform in an urban public transport environment while gathering operational and passenger experience data.
The project also provides an opportunity to develop local expertise around the operation and maintenance of electric and autonomous transit vehicles as the technology is tested in service conditions.
