TARLAC CITY (PIA)—The Philippines’ first smart autonomous bus service, developed by Japan-based Zenmov Inc. and MC Metro Transport Operation Inc., has been introduced recently at New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac.
This energy-efficient transportation system is a convergence project of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) with the two firms and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).
The self-driving bus uses a Smart Mobility Operation Cloud (SMOC) designed to provide convenience for commuters within New Clark City, Clark Freeport Zone, and Clark International Airport.
BCDA Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Gisela Kalalo said that the smart transportation system will allow commuters to have an accessible, smooth, and hassle-free travel experience in Clark.
“This will positively transform the everyday lives of those residing and working within Clark, thus making it easier to get around, reducing traffic congestion, and promoting a green and low-carbon environment,” she said.
With zero cost on the part of the Philippine government, the NEDO and Zenmov will finance the project, with the latter being appointed to execute the smart mobility demonstration program.
“We can definitely learn a lot from Japan’s advanced and innovative transport system. By integrating their smart autonomous vehicle technology, we ensure a more sustainable and scalable transport solution here in Clark,” Kalalo emphasized.
The demonstration program for the initiative features the Primary Rapid Transit, a ‘last mile’ service, traversing select routes in New Clark City, Clark Freeport Zone, and Clark International Airport using SMOC.
This application maximizes operational availability while keeping the number of vehicles at a minimum by managing a lean dispatching system based on travel demand data, enabling Zenmov to measure and verify its effectiveness.
Moreover, Zenmov and MC Metro are set to deploy low-carbon electric vehicles and electric-based bicycles and to install smart poles, drones, and charging stations for real-time data collection and dissemination on the service routes and traffic management.
The smart mobility project aims to innovate solutions that optimize energy use, minimize pollution, lower carbon footprints, and manage congestion and other traffic-related problems.
This is in line with the commitment of the BCDA to develop smart, green, and sustainable projects in Clark with the help of its public and private partners. (CLJD/TJBM, PIA Region 3-Tarlac)
