US AI developer Buffalo Automation and Dutch mobility startup Future Mobility Network have launched an autonomous ferry operation in the Netherlands. The companies claim this as the first fully autonomous robotaxi service in the EU.

The robotaxi service is an autonomous electric ferry that is solar-powered and can be hailed with a ridesharing app. 

Dubbed “Vaar met Ferry”, the ferry is subsidised by the Dutch provincial government and will be cost-free for residents until October 2021. 

Founded in 2015, Buffalo Automation has developed AutoMate, a predictive marine navigation system that guides large commercial ships. The system deploys AI neural networks and thermal imaging technologies to identify obstructions and safety issues providing warnings and assistance in safely navigating around them. AutoMate has been adopted by multiple commercial ships operating on the American Great Lakes and has new pilots around the world.

The Netherlands robotaxi service is based on another Buffalo product called Greycraft that combines electrification, renewable energy, and modular design. Launched first in America at Knoxville, Tennessee last year, Greycraft autonomous navigation technology is designed to be powered primarily by solar panels with battery capacity reserved only for range-extension, low-light operation or emergencies. Greycrafts are also designed to remain operating on the water for several years after assembly and deployment with no maintenance, since they require neither fuel nor manpower to operate.

“From its inception, Buffalo Automation’s goals have been to improve safety and decarbonise the water through the use of our technology,” explains CEO Thiru Vikram. “This project was made possible because of like-minded local community and business leaders who are open to exploring alternative transport models. This historic launch will solidify our commitment to providing the people of South Holland a safe, clean energy means of transportation that protects their numerous blueways and natural resources. Launching this electric robotaxi service, which is powered by our Greycraft technology, on a European river has been an exciting undertaking for our operating field teams. We’re happy that Dutch officials as well as the folks at FMN and NGS share our vision and look forward to more planned launches across the pond.”

Anne Koning, Provincial Executive of South Holland: “Because of the measures to contain the coronavirus, we are increasingly going out in our own country. As a result, the recreational pressure in our green areas has increased considerably. With a financial grant from the province of South Holland, we are realising an extra connection to the island of Koudenhoorn. This is how we hope for a better spread of visitors, and we will ensure that recreants can also be safe this summer and enjoy this beautiful area.”