Bosch granted permit to accelerate driverless car tests

Bosch has become the first recipient of a permit allowing driverless cars to be tested under a new scheme in Victoria, Australia. The permit was issued as part of Victoria’s new Automated Driving System (ADS) scheme. ADS enables permit holders to conduct tests of driverless systems on roads around the state. Bosch specifically wanted the permit to begin trials with the aim of improving safety on rural streets. Gavin Smith, President of Bosch Australia, said: “Bosch is a proud leader in vehicle safety systems and is eager to commence this trial with technologies that will show how we can improve road safety and reduce road trauma on rural roads.” In a statement, the Victoria government noted drivers are five times likelier to be killed on a rural Australian road versus an urban one. The upcoming tests will be the first trialling driverless technology on high-speed rural streets. A wide range of driving conditions will be tested including varied weather conditions, traffic densities, and road infrastructure.