Autonomous vehicle (AV) software provider Oxbotica has become the first UK company to perform live trials with a safety operator on public roads in Germany. The trials took place this summer near Friedrichshafen, with several Oxbotica vehicles navigating complex urban environments. The firm was granted an AV permit from inspection body TÜV SÜD, enabling it to run trials on right-sided roads and therefore develop its AV software for international markets.
The AV permit’s assessment framework included detailed hazard analysis and the combination of physical real-world tests and scenario-based simulations. Having completed numerous trials in the UK, including on complex London streets, the German permit means Oxbotica’s automated vehicle software has now proved itself capable of following the rules of the road and driving on the right in real-world conditions.
Oxbotica’s account of the Friedrichshafen trials are summarised in this video:
Oxbotica CEO Ozgur Tohumcu, said: “The landmark TÜV SÜD AV permit recommendation in Germany allows us to test in one of the world’s leading automotive markets, helping accelerate future deployments both in the region and globally. Our ability to understand and adapt to the rules of the road for driving both on the left and right-hand side of the road provides a fast route to market for our autonomous vehicle software. It also paves the way to take our autonomous driving software internationally through the ongoing commercial engagements with our partners.”