UA Nets $3M Federal Grant For Autonomous Bus Safety Research

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Researchers at the University of Alabama have received a $3 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration and the United States Department of Transportation to develop advanced driver assistance systems for large transit buses.

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The initiative is led by Bharat Balasubramanian, executive director of the Center for Advanced Vehicle Technologies and chief mobility research and development officer for the Alabama Transportation Institute.

The goal of the project will be to bring automated safety features available only in personal vehicles to mass transit, with the Crimson Ride used as the subject of the research.

Another key partner on the project is Perrone Robotics, Inc. — a leader in commercial automated and autonomous vehicle technology.

Researchers say the project will begin with intensive virtual simulations with an interface to Perrone Robotics’ MAX software platform, consisting of a drop-in kit that can be tested in the lab and then fitted into a Crimson Ride bus.

“We are thrilled to bring our TONY Kit to this groundbreaking project,” Perrone Robotics founder and CEO Paul Perrone said. “This collaboration with the University of Alabama allows us to push the boundaries of what automated systems can achieve in next-generation transit applications, ensuring safer and more reliable transportation for all.”

What's more, UA faculty will be working closely with Chris Esposito, executive director of parking and transportation operations, and James Knickrehm, the director of operations of the Crimson Ride bus system.

Researchers also said Nichole Cavin, executive director at the office of sponsored research, was a key team member in setting up the complex grant and contracts.

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