Aviva and Darwin Innovation Group have announced the expansion of their autonomous vehicle insurance project in collaboration with the University of Salford.
The move aims to enhance the Darwin Autonomous Shuttle service by introducing a second self-driving shuttle. This initiative seeks to further research and development in autonomous vehicle technology and enhance understanding of their operation in real-world environments.
Aviva provides insurance coverage for both shuttles. Following the introduction of the Darwin Autonomous Shuttle in 2021, Darwin has collaborated with Aviva by sharing data from the service.
This data exchange enhances Aviva’s insights into the insurance requirements of connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs). With the addition of a second shuttle, Aviva gains further valuable data to refine and develop insurance products tailored to the unique needs of autonomous vehicles.
The second self-driving shuttle, like its predecessor, utilises cameras, LiDAR sensors, 3D maps, and self-driving software to navigate routes, pick up passengers, and detect obstacles.
By deploying two shuttles, the initiative aims to gather more data and insights into autonomous vehicle operation, facilitating advancements in software development and safety measures.
Tom Pitney, Head of Motor at Aviva, said, “The addition of a second shuttle to the autonomous vehicle trial marks an important milestone in our five-year partnership. This trial will give us access to a wealth of rich data, providing valuable insights into claims, underwriting, risk and product areas. This will enable us to be at the forefront of future mobility and ensure that we have products ready to insure the vehicles on our roads as they evolve and change.”
Daniela Petrovic, co-founder of Darwin, added, “As the transportation and insurance industries are interwoven, it’s important for insurers to develop as transport evolves. With the expertise we’ve developed through over two years of autonomous vehicle operation, we’re working closely with Aviva to help make widespread autonomous transport a practical reality.”
The Darwin Autonomous Shuttle service operates at Harwell Science and Innovation Campus in Oxfordshire, supported by the European Space Agency and UK Space Agency.
The collaboration with the University of Salford aims to expand research into autonomous vehicle deployment in the Manchester area, paving the way for future transport solutions.
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