Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) implemented Driver Assist System (DAS) technology on a 10-vehicle bus fleet as part of Minnesota's Urban Partnership Agreement to reduce congestion along Cedar Avenue in Minneapolis. This is the first lane-keeping application of vehicle assist and automation technology (VAA) in bus revenue service by a U.S. transit system.
In November 2010, MVTA implemented the Driver Assist System (DAS) for bus shoulder operations on Cedar Avenue (Trunk Highway 77). The DAS is a GPS-based technology suite that provides accurate lane position feedback to the bus driver. It includes a head-up display (HUD) mounted at eye level in front of the driver that digitally displays the shoulder boundaries under all weather conditions.
MVTA's primary goal in developing the DAS was to enhance driver confidence in operating buses in shoulders, particularly during bad weather. Secondary goals included reduced travel times, increased reliability, safety, and customer satisfaction.
When the DAS was activated, bus drivers stayed in the shoulders 10 percent longer and drove 3 miles per hour faster, on average. The majority of drivers believed the DAS made driving in the shoulder safer and less stressful.
Urban Partnership Agreement: Minnesota Evaluation Report
Total costs to plan, design, and construct/purchase Minnesota Valley Transit Authority's DAS for shoulder running buses (in 2009 dollars): $5,315,573. Minnesota's DAS operating & maintenance costs (in 2009 dollars): $106,215.