Exploring Ulsan's Innovative Whale Bus
Hello!
This is Kim Jong-hee, a blogger from Ulsan!
When you think of Ulsan, you think of whales, right?
Let me introduce you to the autonomous Whale Bus, a symbol of innovative technology.
Currently, it is in trial operation as part of Ulsan's smart city project.
This advanced mode of transportation drives itself along a designated route and represents the AI capital of Ulsan, which I am eager to share with you!
The Whale Bus can mainly be found around Ulsan's Techno Park, the Innovation City area, the airport, and at Cheok and Banyong terminals.
Thanks to its cute wrapping that features a large whale enveloping the entire bus, it is easily recognizable from a distance.
The design is modern yet friendly, themed around the whale, which is a symbol of Ulsan. The bus is equipped with precise sensors on the top and sides to recognize surrounding objects, giving it a futuristic vibe that sets it apart from regular buses.
Route Information and Schedule
The Ulsan autonomous bus operates on two main routes.
Detailed information can be found on the Ulsan Bus Information app, which is available for download on Android and iOS.
Route Overview (Route A & B)
✔️ Autonomous Route A: Cheok and Banyong Terminal ↔ Jongga Road ↔ Ulsan Airport
This route operates large 17-seater vehicles similar to regular city buses, utilizing autonomous driving technology to navigate complex city signals and traffic.
A round trip takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
✔️ Autonomous Route B: Ulsan Techno Park to Ulsan Middle School
This route features a compact shuttle with around 8 seats.
Its unique D-shaped seating arrangement gives it a lounge-like feel, and a round trip takes about 30 minutes.
Schedule Information
✔️ Operating Hours: The bus runs only on weekdays, with different schedules for A and B routes.
✔️ Frequency: Buses run approximately every 30 to 40 minutes, but this may vary based on real-time conditions and safety checks.
✔️ Operation Method: Passengers wait at designated stops according to the schedule before boarding.
Interior and Technology Overview
Upon entering the bus, you will notice large windows providing an open and airy feeling.
Monitors display real-time data collected by LiDAR and high-performance cameras installed on the bus.
It was surprising to find no human driver present!
The bus receives traffic signal information through vehicle-to-everything communication and can detect obstacles with millimeter precision, autonomously deciding when to accelerate or decelerate.
The technology allows it to communicate with road infrastructure, adjusting speed based on signal status.
The bus operates quietly and maintains a clean interior, ensuring a comfortable ride.
Safety personnel monitor the interior, and the bus operates manually in school zones.
Doors open automatically for passengers, and a ramp is available for wheelchair users.
Seat belts must be worn once onboard.
Personal Experience on Autonomous Route B
I recently took a ride on Route B at 3:15 PM from the Techno Park stop.
The adorable pink Whale Bus arrived, and I was so excited to board!
Initially, I wondered if it was okay not to hold the steering wheel, but the ride was smooth.
It recognized traffic signals and accelerated smoothly, maintaining its lane effortlessly.
The interior was pleasant and quiet, making it feel like I was in a futuristic shuttle.
During my ride, another passenger expressed curiosity about the bus, and the staff provided detailed information about routes and schedules.
It was heartwarming to see more citizens interested in using this innovative service.
Autonomous vehicles are now a reality on Ulsan's roads, showcasing advanced mobility technology.
If you visit Ulsan on a weekday, why not experience this smart Whale Bus?
Source :https://blog.naver.com/ulsan_nuri/224178427354
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