Biz Briefs: Autonomous Mini Buses, GOGO Charters, and More

Alstom, GOGO Charters, and Siemens Mobility recently announced news from their respective companies.

Autonomous Mini Buses to Deploy in France

Alstom announced it is part of a French consortium, which includes EasyMile, Equans, Keolis, Renault Group, and StatInf, as they prepare the launch of a new, zero-emission public transport service at Level 4 of autonomous driving.

The first deployment of a Level 4 autonomous mobility service on this scale marks a step in the development of automated public transport in France, and in Europe. 

The service will be operational from 2026 in the city center of Châteauroux, integrated into the city's "Horizon" bus network, and operated by Keolis.

GOGO Charters Launches Charter Bus in San Antonio

GOGO Charters announced its official launch servicing greater San Antonio. 

"We are thrilled to bring our top-notch charter bus services to the beautiful city of San Antonio, where tradition meets innovation," said Farzin Parsa, president of GOGO Charters. "Whether you're strolling along the iconic River Walk or attending important business meetings, GOGO Charters is here to handle all your transportation logistics. Our reliable and customized charter bus service is designed to make your time in San Antonio truly unforgettable.”

GOGO Charters will offer one-time and recurring group transportation services for a variety of trips, events, and special occasions.

Siemens Mobility Secures Service Contract

Siemens Mobility announced it has been awarded a contract extension for the maintenance of the Class 185 fleet serving TransPennine Express routes operating between Manchester, Sheffield, and Cleethorpes and Manchester to Hull from northwest of England depots

“The UK is one of our core markets and we’re proud to have been awarded this contract extension,” said Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility. “It is a real testament for us being a trusted partner to our customers and continuing to ensure trains perform at a high standard throughout their entire lifecycle. Railigent X applications, part of the open, digital Siemens Xcelerator business platform, enable us to offer best passenger experience and highest availability.”

The majority of maintenance work will take place at Ardwick Depot, Manchester and subsidiary depots at York and Cleethorpes.

The $566 million contract extension will continue to support around 200 jobs across Siemens Mobility depots in the north of England.