Autonomous a2z, a member of the Venture Enterprise Association and an autonomous driving startup, disclosed on Nov. 27 that it has signed a memorandum of understanding with Horiba Mira from the U.K., focusing on future mobility.
In October, Autonomous a2z successfully completed a Series B funding round of 34 billion won (US$26 million) and unveiled its mass-produced unmanned mobility platforms, Project MS (Mid Shuttle) and SD (Small Delivery). These platforms, designed for autonomous driving, can operate completely unmanned on public roads at speeds up to 60 kph. The MS is an unmanned shuttle capable of seating up to 12 passengers, while the SD is designed for middle and last-mile logistics.
The company has been enhancing the quality and performance of these vehicles through a development process similar to that of finished automobiles, including testing, prototyping, and pilot development. They plan to launch pilot models in 2025.
The recent MOU will enable both companies to strategically collaborate on autonomous vehicle trial operations at the MIRA Technology Park, joint research and development for international and government projects, and the development of advanced technologies for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs).
Han Ji-hyung, the CEO of Autonomous a2z, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “This international collaboration will introduce Korea’s advanced technology to the U.K. and lay the groundwork for joint global R&D projects in future mobility.”