Aviva and Darwin revolutionize autonomous vehicle insurance scheme.

TLDR:

• Aviva and Darwin Innovation Group are expanding their autonomous vehicle insurance project.
• The addition of a second self-driving shuttle aims to enhance research and development in autonomous vehicle technology.

Key Elements:

Aviva and Darwin have announced the expansion of their autonomous vehicle insurance project in collaboration with the University of Salford. The project involves the introduction of a second self-driving shuttle to enhance research and development in autonomous vehicle technology. Aviva provides insurance coverage for both shuttles and gains valuable data insights to refine insurance products specific to autonomous vehicles.

The autonomous shuttles utilize advanced technology such as cameras, LiDAR sensors, 3D maps, and self-driving software to navigate routes and detect obstacles. With the introduction of the second shuttle, Aviva aims to gather more data for software development and safety measures. The collaboration with the University of Salford seeks to expand research into autonomous vehicle deployment in Manchester, advancing future transport solutions.

Tom Pitney, Head of Motor at Aviva, highlighted the importance of the trial in providing insights into claims, underwriting, and risk areas, while Daniela Petrovic, co-founder of Darwin, emphasized the need for insurers to evolve with transport advancements. The project operates at Harwell Science and Innovation Campus in Oxfordshire and is supported by the European Space Agency and UK Space Agency.