Chengdu Public Transport Group, in collaboration with CRRC Electric Vehicle Co., Ltd (CRRC.EV) under CRRC Corporation Limited (CRCC), has launched an autonomous bus demonstration project in Chengdu. The project features four newly developed L4 6-meter autonomous micro-circulation buses, representing a significant advancement in smart urban mobility.
A view of the newly developed L4 6-meter autonomous micro-circulation bus [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]
Based on CRRC’s mass-production steer-by-wire platform, the buses feature an open smart cockpit design that supports both manned driving and driverless operations. With a 16-seat capacity, they combine high transport efficiency with the flexibility needed for short-distance urban connections and commuter services.
Equipped with a high-precision sensor matrix that integrates LiDAR and vision technology, along with a domestically developed automotive-grade domain controller, the system is powered by next-generation AI algorithms for planning, perception, and control. This enables the buses to handle full-spectrum urban driving scenarios, including automatic stops, obstacle avoidance, and route planning. The vehicles are currently in road testing and will soon be available to the public in Chengdu.
Unlike traditional demonstration projects, this initiative emphasizes building a full life-cycle management and technical system for autonomous bus operations. Through top-level planning and on-the-ground practice, the partners have established solutions and standards across six core elements — people, vehicles, stations, depots, power, and maintenance — as well as the full process of operation, dispatching, monitoring, and emergency response. Together, they compiled China’s first integrated guideline for autonomous bus system testing and coordination.
As a platform for open autonomous driving deployment and operations, CRRC.EV is committed to empowering bus operators through joint research, co-creation, and capacity building. By enabling enterprises to master the skills required for large-scale autonomous bus operations and maintenance, CRRC.EV is advancing greener, smarter, and more connected public transport.
(Executive editor: Yuan Ting)
