Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a shuttle “autonomous”?

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) are being safely deployed throughout the U.S. and beyond. PRESTO shuttles do not have drivers, pedals, or a steering wheel but will have an on-board attendant to monitor safety. The attendants can also answer rider questions about the shuttle. The remote Beep Command Center will ensure safe operation of the vehicle at all times.

Why is CCTA running an autonomous shuttle demonstration?

By some counts, 73% of Contra Costa residents don’t have quality access to transit. Shared Autonomous Vehicles (SAVs) can help to improve access to transit in areas not served by traditional bus or mass transit services and can connect those centers with transportation hubs. SAVs deliver greater mobility access and choices for transportation-challenged, underserved communities, while producing no greenhouse gas emissions and reducing congestion.

It will also help CCTA understand current autonomous shuttle capabilities, ensure safety, increase community awareness of autonomous technology, provide opportunities to collect feedback, and gather data from Beep to guide our long-term plans.

Why was Bishop Ranch selected as the project site?

Bishop Ranch Business Park in San Ramon, CA is an ideal site for this type of pilot project. Home to over 30,000 employees working for some of the largest companies in the world, Bishop Ranch needs smart, energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly mobility solutions. Shared Autonomous Vehicles (SAVs) will help people working at and visiting Bishop Ranch to move about the large campus safely and efficiently and offers a great opportunity to test a wide variety of traveler needs within a concentrated geographical area. Data and findings from the Bishop Ranch pilot project will help Contra Costa County and the country prepare for the future of autonomous vehicle technology.

What can passengers expect while riding the shuttles?

PRESTO shuttles travel at a maximum speed of 15 miles per hour and rides are limited to 8 people. To board a PRESTO shuttle, wait for it to stop fully, and the doors will automatically open. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Who can use the PRESTO shuttle?

Anyone can use the PRESTO shuttle during the pilot project. You do not have to work at Bishop Ranch to use the shuttle. Riders age 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

How much does it cost to ride the PRESTO shuttle?

Nothing! The PRESTO shuttle is free to ride.

Is the PRESTO shuttle accessible to people with disabilities?

Yes. PRESTO shuttles have a ramp attachment that the attendant can set up to allow wheelchair users to board. Once on board, there are safety anchors that allow the wheelchair to be secured to the shuttle floor.

How can I contribute to the project? How can passengers provide feedback?

Your feedback after riding a shuttle is critical to the success of the project. Each shuttle has a QR onboard and outside of the shuttle that will take you to a passenger survey. Hop on board and let us know what you think!

How will CCTA ensure safe operations during the project?

CCTA has been testing autonomous shuttles at GoMentum Station in Concord, CA since 2016. CCTA’s partner for the project, Beep, has safely carried more than 105,000 passengers since it started testing autonomous shuttles on public roads in September 2019. They have successfully operated autonomous shuttles on public roads throughout the country including Florida, Georgia, Arizona, and even at Yellowstone National Park!

Beep will provide continuous monitoring and oversight of autonomous shuttle with an on-board attendant and through our Beep Command Center. Beep has also conducted a first responder training day for emergency crews to instruct them about how to interact with, enter, and understand the AV.

What is CCTA expecting to learn from the project?

Data and learnings from the pilot projects will guide CCTA’s long-term strategy of enhancing the connectivity of people to the places they need to go, to meet the travel needs of the County’s growing population. This will help influence future service areas, realign transit routes, and increase service to areas that are currently underserved or have gaps in connectivity to existing transportation options. By participating in these pilots, you are helping to improve the future of high-quality, safe, reliable, convenient, clean, and efficient transportation in the county and beyond.