Pioneering autonomous, zero-emission public transport in Orkney

Urban Foresight is leading an ambitious new project to explore whether a self-driving, zero-emission shuttle service could enhance travel between Kirkwall Harbour and Kirkwall Airport in Orkney.

Tackling rural transport challenges

Kirkwall Airport handles over 160,000 passengers annually, providing vital connectivity for one of the UK’s most remote regions. Yet over 90% of journeys to the airport still rely on private cars, putting pressure on local infrastructure and the environment. This highlights a critical need for more sustainable, integrated and accessible transport options.

Rethinking mobility with data, technology and community voices

Urban Foresight, working with The Highlands and Islands Transport Partnership (HITRANS), and autonomous vehicle manufacturers Aurrigo, will evaluate if a self -driving shuttle can reduce car dependency, cut emissions, and provide seamless connections between major transport hubs in Orkney.

The project will develop a business case assessing the technical, commercial, and regulatory viability of the service. A key element will be engagement with over 250 residents and businesses, ensuring local needs and perspectives shape the solution.

Should the findings confirm the service is feasible, the next step will be a real-world trial, with the long-term aim of launching a permanent service.

A blueprint for rural and island communities

This pioneering study has the potential to become a model for other rural and island regions across the UK.

“This project is about proving how cutting-edge transport solutions could work beyond cities. By testing the feasibility of autonomous shuttles in a place as unique and remote as Orkney, we aim to show how innovation might support smarter, greener, and more inclusive mobility.” – said Callum White, Head of Zero Emission Mobility at Urban Foresight.

“It’s an important step toward improving connectivity, support local economies, and building the case for future deployment in rural areas.”

The project builds on Urban Foresight’s extensive experience delivering transport feasibility studies and net zero strategies nationwide. We also have a strong track record of working in Orkney on a range of innovative projects including planning the islands’ shift to electric vehicles, assessing the feasibility of a visitor levy for Scottish islands, and exploring solutions for decarbonising the island’s ferries.

Kirkwall Autolink is part of CCAV’s CAM Pathfinder Programme, funded by UK Government. The CAM Pathfinder Programme, as part of the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy and the Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan, is delivered by the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles, a joint unit between the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and the Department for Transport (DfT) in partnership with Innovate UK and Zenzic.