Beep – a provider of multi-passenger, electric, autonomous mobility solutions – announced June 10 the launch of Yellowstone National Park’s first-ever autonomous shuttle program, called T.E.D.D.Y. (The Electric Driverless Demonstration in Yellowstone), in partnership with Local Motors, a leader in the design and manufacturing of autonomous vehicles. The T.E.D.D.Y. project, an ode to Teddy Roosevelt, will enable the National Park Service to test the feasibility and sustainability of autonomous mobility and better plan for the future of transportation.
“Beep is proud to have been selected by the National Park Service to provide transformative mobility at the country’s first national park. Our safety centric approach is a vital component in our planning, management and oversight of the operation to ensure we are providing visitors with a safe and sustainable mode of transport while enjoying the park. Our team spent several weeks onsite leading up to the start of the program conducting rigorous route testing, as well as training first responders and frontline workers in order to protect and preserve all that Yellowstone has to offer," said Joe Moye, Beep CEO.
Beep provided the full turnkey solution for the project by planning, managing, and deploying with the NPS. Through Aug. 31, Beep will enable two routes seven days a week at Yellowstone, collecting vital information such as ridership, route optimization, and overall vehicle operations. Learnings and data gathered will help inform potential future deployments in national parks across the country. Beep service currently features an operator – with the deep understanding that the general public still is very hesitant when it comes to autonomous vehicles. The attendants also serve as a resource for education on autonomous services, how they work, etc.
“The project at Canyon Village is a testament to the strong partnership between Local Motors and Beep to deploy electric autonomous vehicles. Olli will provide park visitors with a truly unique rider experience. Our 3D-printed vehicle structure is made from recyclable materials, and the vehicle utilizes a fully electric drive train, reflecting our commitment to making mobility more sustainable. We are excited to be bringing this technology to the NPS," said Local Motors President Vikrant Aggarwal.
A Monumental First: Autonomous Mobility, Leveraging AV Leadership
T.E.D.D.Y. will be navigating through the Canyon Village area of Yellowstone National Park through the peak summer season.
Lodge Route will operate from June 9 to July 12.
Campground Route will operate from July 14 to Aug. 31.
Both routes will deliver a safe, unique rider experience onboard the world’s first 3D-printed autonomous vehicle, Olli by Local Motors.
Olli will continuously analyze the road 360-degrees around the vehicle using high-definition sensors before deciding how to safely proceed given the wildlife, pedestrians and vehicles nearby.
Beep will ensure passenger safety with the T.E.D.D.Y. project by providing continuous oversight through its Beep Command Center.
