Local Motors by LM Industries Inc., in partnership with the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), has expanded the testing of Olli, its low-speed, connected, self-driving shuttle, to public roads in National Harbor. Due to a landmark local permit, Olli will collect imperative insights to help solve Maryland’s most pressing transportation challenges such as traffic congestion, accessibility and environmental concerns like pollution.
As Olli completes its route on private and public roads, Local Motors’ engineers will collect and analyze data in real-time from scenarios such as intersection crossing, and interactions with pedestrians. The route will serve as an alternative transportation option to the residents and employees of National Harbor as well as visiting tourists, carrying them to harbor attractions and commerce centers. Any interested member of the public who is a guest of Local Motors can ride Olli Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET. To become guests of Local Motors, register at rideOlli.com to sign a waiver and get a QR Code to board the vehicle.
“Our goal at Local Motors is to create and deliver safe and accessible mobility solutions for local communities,” said Vikrant Aggarwal, president of Local Motors. “By completing ‘real-world’ testing on public roads in National Harbor, we’re compiling the data needed to ensure that Olli meets consumer needs and desires in all scenarios.”
This public road testing in Maryland also marks the power of local legislators working with American manufacturers like Local Motors to drive mobility innovation. Under Senator Van Hollen’s leadership, Maryland has positioned itself on the cutting-edge of electric and autonomous vehicle testing.
“Visiting Local Motors this week gave me the opportunity to see their innovative work first-hand. I appreciated the chance to tour their facility and learn more about their efforts to create sustainable, accessible new forms of transportation. I look forward to seeing their continued progress with Olli,” said Senator Van Hollen, who toured the Local Motors facility in National Harbor on Monday.
