Suncorp signs with QUT to drive future of automated vehicles

Suncorp and QUT’s partnership is part of the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads and iMove Cooperative Research Centre’s Cooperative and Highly Automated Driving (CHAD) Pilot, launched last week.

Suncorp’s Executive Manager Consumer Products Joshua Kelland said QUT and its Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety – Queensland (CARRS-Q) were the perfect partner to help plan for safer roads today and into the future.

“Technology is changing every part of our lives, and we are excited to be working with QUT and its CHAD Pilot partners to understand what this means for Queensland motorists,” Mr Kelland said.

“As the insurer of the test vehicle we will be building on our 100-year history of protecting what matters for Queenslanders, while also playing a key role in enabling the future of mobility in our home state.  

“Consumers are already becoming increasingly comfortable with new ways of travelling, from ride sharing to electric scooters, so it is very exciting to be involved in the next evolution. 

“Every day our people witness the impact road trauma has on our customers and communities, which is why we are backing this research to ensure when autonomous vehicles are introduced, our roads will be safer.”

“QUT is conducting evidence based research to inform governments and private sectors about the safety benefits of new Intelligent Transport Technology. This collaboration will use Suncorp’s market expertise to convey new research findings in Automated Vehicle applications to the public”, Professor Andry Rakotonirainy Director of CARRS-Q said.

Understanding how autonomous vehicles work in real world environments is crucial to assessing risks. This includes being mindful of the interaction between new technology and existing vehicles and infrastructure.  

“While the rollout of technology is advancing, there’ll likely be a long period where there will be a mix of traditional and more autonomous vehicles on the roads,” Mr Kelland said.

“The data-driven insights from this trial will form the base for an ongoing partnership and further learning opportunities. It will allow us to adapt and evolve our digital insurance solutions to meet the emerging needs of our customers.”