Public Official Seeks Advancement of Autonomous Vehicle Technology, With Particular Focus on Bus Transportation
In the realm of autonomous transport, Baden-Württemberg's Transport Minister, Winfried Hermann from the Green Party, has expressed a nuanced perspective. While he does not support the widespread use of autonomous vehicles for individual transport, he is favourable towards the application of autonomous technology in public transport.
Hermann's primary concern revolves around the potential increase in empty trips, which he believes could exacerbate traffic congestion and have a detrimental impact on resources and the environment. This apprehension is particularly evident in his opposition to children using autonomous vehicles to travel to and from kindergarten, as well as his concern about the increased use of autonomous vehicles by people under 18 leading to more car traffic.
However, Hermann sees potential benefits in using autonomous technology for public transport and in rural areas. He suggests that autonomous buses could address the shortage of bus drivers in rural areas, thereby improving public transport services. He also believes that the testing of autonomous driving without detours, as seen in South Korea, could provide valuable insights for Baden-Württemberg.
Hermann's stance on autonomous transport is shaped by his focus on climate protection, safety, and innovation in transportation infrastructure. He has emphasized the importance of sustainable mobility, reducing emissions, increasing efficiency, and improving road safety. His response to the July 2025 train derailment near Riedlingen, involving extreme weather impacts, underscores his commitment to safety and climate considerations in any transport evolution.
Despite his opposition to many autonomous vehicles on the roads in the southwest, Hermann supports modernizing transport infrastructure with green and innovative solutions. This is evident in his support for projects like the new bicycle highway bridge in Böblingen, which promotes sustainable travel. Autonomous transport could potentially fit into his broader vision to shift mobility towards climate-friendly and efficient modes.
In conclusion, while Hermann has not explicitly outlined policies on autonomous public transit, his priorities and concerns suggest that he would approach autonomous solutions with a focus on sustainability, safety, and innovation. The challenge of managing empty trips and ensuring safety in complex real-world scenarios will be key considerations in his approach.
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