The world of ride-hailing is evolving rapidly, with established players like Waymo and Tesla dominating the autonomous vehicle market. However, new startups are entering the arena with innovative approaches to revolutionize the industry.
One such startup, Sway Mobility, in collaboration with Mapless AI, recently launched a pilot program in Detroit called Corktown Carshare. This unique ride-hailing service differs from traditional autonomous robotaxis by incorporating a remote operator who delivers a Kia Niro EV to the customer’s doorstep. The customer then takes over the wheel, and after the trip, the car autonomously drives itself to the next rider or a charging station.
This approach, although unconventional, aims to provide a more cost-effective mobility option. Philipp Robbel, the CEO of Mapless AI, highlighted that by involving the user in the driving process, the service becomes significantly cheaper. The remote operator controls the vehicle from a video-game-like desk setup, ensuring safety and guidance during the ride.
Currently, Corktown Carshare operates with one Niro EV within a 2-mile geo-fenced area in Detroit, with plans to expand the fleet and introduce new features in the future. Users will soon be able to schedule trips through a smartphone app, unlocking the car upon arrival and taking control of the driving. The remote operator will then guide the vehicle to its next destination, whether it be another user or a maintenance facility.
The startup aims to incorporate different types of vehicles into the fleet, catering to diverse customer needs. The technology onboard the vehicles, including cameras, LiDAR sensors, and a low-cost compute unit, ensures safe and efficient operations even in challenging situations like power outages or communication network latency.
Robbel emphasized that teleoperation could be a transitional solution before fully autonomous technology becomes mainstream. Studies have shown that passengers still prefer human operators over computers, indicating a need for hybrid solutions like Corktown Carshare. The startup plans to integrate more autonomous features in the future, adapting to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements.
In conclusion, Corktown Carshare’s innovative approach to ride-hailing showcases the potential for remote-operated services in the evolving transportation landscape. By combining human oversight with autonomous capabilities, the startup aims to provide a seamless and cost-effective mobility solution for urban environments.