The free ride on an autonomous shuttle is not the point. Building trust is
The AV trials are more than a promotional exercise. The purpose is to build public trust in a technology that could become an increasingly familiar part of everyday life.
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Free trials of autonomous vehicles are under way in Punggol. Familiarity with the new technology will breed trust, says the writer.
PHOTO: ST FILE
Samuel Chng
In February 2024, images of a Waymo robotaxi, engulfed in flames in San Francisco, circulated around the world.
Earlier this year, Grab began offering free public rides on its autonomous shuttle service in Punggol, attracting strong public interest and serving thousands of passengers.