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A&K Robotics’ autonomous mobility pod is fully electric and offers a new way for people with disabilities to navigate busy airports. | Source: A&K Robotics
A&K Robotics is working with British Columbia’s Integrated Marketplace, run by Innovate BC, to test its self-driving robot pods at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). A&K designed the pod to provide another option for passengers with multiple transportation and guidance needs, or who need assistance navigating the airport.
The Canadian company said its Cruise autonomous pods use an intelligent navigation system that connects people with mobility challenges to a complete airport experience, including access to shops, restaurants, disabled toilet facilities and other amenities.
“This collaboration is proof of how visionary ideas can transform industries and impact the future of transportation,” said Matthew Anderson, CEO of A&K Robotics. “By deploying our micromobility robot pods at YVR, we will establish a new standard of accessibility for all travelers while driving economic growth and opening the door to innovation in transportation and aviation around the world.”
A&K Robotics tested the robot at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in 2022. The robot operated in Concourse C on the airport’s departure level, helping people who needed assistance getting to their boarding gates or eating at restaurants.
Jay Farrell, deputy general manager and chief commercial officer at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, said the pilot produced “very impressive” results. A&K spent 2023 closing a funding round, adding features to the platform and working with more airports.
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A&K Robotics to gradually introduce Cruise
A&K Robotics and Vancouver Airport plan to gradually introduce the new mobility pods and safely integrate them into the airport environment. As more Cruz units become operational, more passengers will be able to use them as part of their customized itineraries.
A&K said it will work closely with YVR during this implementation phase to gather passenger feedback that will contribute to ongoing development. The company said it expects passenger testing of the autonomous pods to begin in September 2024.
“The new autonomous pods manufactured by A&K Robotics are an important step forward for accessibility at YVR, helping to ensure people of all ages and abilities can navigate the terminal independently,” said Tamara Vrooman, president and CEO of Vancouver International Airport.
“Through our role as the initial testbed for the integrated marketplace, we are supporting the development and implementation of made-in-BC solutions that benefit YVR, our communities and local businesses,” she said. “We look forward to making this new technology available to travellers as early as next year.”
About the Unified Marketplace
Innovate BC’s integrated marketplace works to strengthen innovation in British Columbia by connecting strategic buyers from British Columbia’s largest industries with local technology providers to implement, scale and ultimately export their offerings.
The framework allows British Columbia’s industries to receive assistance in adopting innovations, and the initiative also aims to help these providers connect with valuable Canadian customers who will support their growth.
“British Columbia is home to incredible companies developing innovative technologies and practical solutions that make people’s lives better,” said Brenda Bailey, British Columbia’s Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “Through the Integrated Marketplace, we will continue to develop the tools A&K Robotics needs to continue to grow while helping people with mobility challenges access the mobility services they need.”
Vancouver Airport serves as one of four testbeds for the Integrated Marketplace, with several innovation projects underway to help improve operations and reduce emissions. Through the Integrated Marketplace, the Province of British Columbia and the Government of Canada are contributing up to $1.6 million through PacifiCan to reimagine travel at the airport.
“Introducing mobility technology into Vancouver Airport’s operations is an important step towards creating a more accessible and inclusive airport experience in Vancouver and will showcase the capabilities of local companies to the world,” added Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness at the Canadian Pacific Economic Development Agency. “Through projects like this, the Integrated Marketplace is helping local companies like A&K Robotics pilot innovations, expand their operations and enter new markets.”
The announcement is part of a provincial government investment of up to $11.5 million and the Government of Canada investment of up to $9.9 million in the Integrated Marketplace.
Officials celebrate the debut of the Cruise Personal Mobility Pod at Vancouver International Airport. Credit: A&K Robotics
