London bus technology to detect cyclists trialled
Four London buses will be fitted with pedestrian and cyclist detection software as part of a six-week trial.
The buses will be fitted with the technology which directly alerts bus drivers when pedestrians and cyclists are moving close to their vehicles
It is hoped the technology will help reduce collisions, Transport for London (TfL) said.
The trial will take place on buses on route 25 and route 73, with a report on its findings published this year.
TfL intends to trial two systems from 15 August - CycleEye from Fusion Processing Limited and Cycle Safety Shield from Safety Shield Systems Limited.
CycleEye uses both radar and optical technology to detect cyclists in close proximity to vehicles with the system giving audio alerts to their presence to the bus drive.
Cycle Safety Shield detects pedestrians, cyclists or motorcyclists in close proximity to vehicles, giving a visual warning and then an audio alert to the driver.
Deputy Mayor for Transport Isabel Dedring said: "This is another great example of London leading the way by using the latest innovative technology to further improve safety for every road user."
TfL's managing director for surface transport, Leon Daniels, said: "The number of people cycling in London is increasing, therefore it is vital that we continue to make London's streets as safe as possible."