Google-backed autonomous driving technology firm Oxa has launched its self-driving technology for Ford E-transit vans and minibuses onto British and American roads.
The Oxford-based self-driving vehicle software group is looking to accelerate the commercialisation of its technology, with the hopes that its Ford E-Transit launch represents a major stepping stone in the wider release of autonomous vehicles.
The Ford E-Transit, a popular electric van, can now be converted into autonomous vehicles by fitting it with Oxa’s software.
According to the startup, which secured a major investment from Google as part of its most recent funding round in 2023, the Ford E-transits are the first mass-production vehicles to be converted using what Oxa calls its Reference Autonomy Designs (RADS).
Other backers of the company include Ocado Group, Tencent and Kiko Ventures.
Oxa, which is betting big on autonomous driving’s future being for commercial use, said the autonomous Ford E-Transit is configurable for both logistics and passenger services and can be integrated into existing fleets.
“Making the Ford E-Transit available for autonomous operations is the next step on our journey to deliver safe, scalable, and sustainable autonomous solutions,” said Gavin Jackson, CEO of Oxa.
“This vehicle represents an important milestone in our mission to reshape the future of passenger transportation and logistics.”
Oxa has previously provided autonomous software for a number of commercial self-driving vehicle projects, including shuttle services in Florida and Belfast and supporting the wider rollout of the technology in the United Arab Emirates.
In September, Oxa acquired logistics startup StreetDrone to support its product development for industrial customers.
Listen: Podcast: How the UK is gearing up for autonomous vehicle leadership – Oxa’s Gavin Jackson