Keolis, a French transport group, has partnered with Navya to launch Navly, the world’s first autonomous, driverless public transportation service.

Currently, Navly is undergoing test runs in Lyon, France where Keolis operates the bus, tram and subway systems.

The service will use Navya’s ARMA autonomous vehicle as part of a public transportation network for the first time.

"The Navya vehicle is safe, convenient and sustainable, and will provide public authorities with an exciting and intelligent new option to meet the growing demand for urban mobility solutions."

Keolis North America CEO Clement Michel said: “Keolis is pleased to be partnering with Navya here at APTA to introduce this new and innovative transportation solution to our clients in the US and Canada.

“The Navya vehicle is safe, convenient and sustainable, and will provide public authorities with an exciting and intelligent new option to meet the growing demand for urban mobility solutions.”

The service was developed with the support of la Métropole de Lyon and Sytral, the local agency responsible for public transport, and complies with France’s safety regulations for allowing for autonomous shuttles to operate on open roads.

ARMA is an intelligent driverless shuttle that has been designed and developed by Navya, which has the capacity to accommodate and safely transport 15 passengers at speeds of up to 28mph.

The ARMA shuttles do not feature steering wheel or pedals, and run on a battery, and it is 100% electric vehicle with advanced navigation and sensor system.

The service in Lyon has five stops, which cover approximately one mile. The area traversed by the vehicle is free of traffic lights, crosswalks and intersections.

The vehicle takes nearly 13 minutes to complete the one mile stretch, and an operator is on board at all times to ensure the safety of passengers and answer questions.