A disused railway tunnel in Northamptonshire, UK, has become a test facility for self-driving vehicles.
The 2.7km Catesby Tunnel has officially joined Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM) Testbed UK, a global center dedicated to the development of connected and autonomous vehicle technologies.
Operated by Catesby Projects, a UK engineering consultancy, this first-of-its-kind facility becomes the sixth test site in the network.
The inclusion of Catesby Tunnel in the network aims to strengthen the UK’s testing capabilities and relationships with other testbeds.
John Paton, managing director of Catesby Projects, said, “Catesby Tunnel is incredibly excited to become a member of CAM Testbed UK, joining a list of prestigious and innovative organizations that together demonstrate the UK’s broad capability for autonomous vehicle development.
“We can’t wait to begin working with new companies and promoting the UK as a global center for developing connected and automated mobility technologies.”
The tunnel is reportedly ideal for all types of vehicle testing, providing stable temperature, pressure and humidity. Its smooth surface (±2mm of being planar) allows for precise data collection and analysis, aiming to improve the reliability of test results.
Additionally, the tunnel has radio insulation, which allows it to be completely dark.
Existing members of CAM Testbed UK include UTAC Millbrook – Culham and Assured CAV, which offer controlled testing facilities; Smart Mobility Living Lab London and Midlands Future Mobility, which provide spaces for testing in a public environment; and data exchange expert Convex.