Developed by technology specialist RDM Group, the Pod Zero vehicle will move around a specially laid out track at Millbrook, which is designed to show the vehicle’s versatility.
David Keene, RDM’s founder, describes it as “a massive moment” for the business and for driverless vehicle technology.
“The company has invested millions of pounds in the technology and our team has created a vehicle which can operate in total ‘autonomous’ mode,” he says.
“This means that there is no driver or human controlling the vehicle, a UK-first when it comes to ‘first and last mile’ transport solutions.”
A special body version of the Pod Zero will be used, which is transparent from the wheels up to give visitors a clear view of the interior.
“There will be significant interest in this latest development step and it paves the way for full trials – carrying people from A to B – to now take place,” says Keene.
RDM Group has developed autonomous pods that will be available in two-, four- and eight-seater versions, ideal for local city transport authorities, airports, shopping centres and campuses.
They have an operational range of 60 miles, can travel with a top speed of 15mph and have been designed to accommodate passengers with special requirements, including wheelchair access and aids for the visually impaired.
RDM, adds Keene, can already manufacture up to 200 pods per year at its Coventry manufacturing facility and this could expand if the business moves to a new purpose-built site in the city.