Power and automation equipment provider Alstom has invested €14m ($15m) in France-based driverless transport technology developer EasyMile.
Founded in 2014, EasyMile provides software that drives autonomous vehicles and smart mobility technology. Its lead product is a driverless electronic shuttle called the EZ10 that is used to carry up to 12 people at a time through a confined area or precinct.
The investment will be used to support EasyMile’s growth, for which it expects to leverage Alstom’s global network, and for research and development. The EZ10 is already in use at 50 sites across Asia, Europe, North America, Australia and the Middle-East.
The companies have also signed a partnership agreement that will involve them collaborating on developing urban transport solutions. A representative from Alstom will take a seat on EasyMile’s board of directors in conjunction with the round.
Bruno Marguet, Alstom’s head of strategy, said: “In the frame of its 2020 strategy, Alstom has decided to explore adjacent businesses, especially in the context of digitalisation.
“Through this investment, Alstom expands its knowledge into the driverless technologies and pursues its development in the growing field of smart mobility. We are confident in the success of the EZ10, already tested in different climates and conditions.”
– Photo courtesy of EasyMile SAS