Finnish company Sensible 4 wants to really winterize its autonomous vehicles.
Two converted Toyota models made by sensitive 4 were converted, are to complete a test north of the Arctic Circle. It is a 3.6 kilometer route that features variable weather conditions. The test field is located in the city of Bodø and represents a public transport connection between important stations.
Bodø has a sub-polar climate combined with challenging weather connected and which changes dramatically throughout the year. So every year there is a mixture of rain, wind, snow, daylight and different temperatures. You can even experience different seasons in one day. The test will initially last until the New Year to experience the appropriate weather conditions. According to the Frank Sinatra song, the company sees it this way: if the car can operate here, it can operate anywhere in the world.
The Toyota models run at a speed of 30 kilometers per hour at eight bus stops. The route connects the port with the hospital. As required by law, security personnel are on board in case of an emergency. Mobility Forum, Boreal, Nordland County Municipality, Bodø Municipality and the company Sensible 4 have teamed up for the project.
The project in Bodø is not the only one of its kind. Sensible 4 has already tested its concept in various areas of Scandinavia, including in the freezing conditions and heavy snowfall.