Overview
ISO 21734-1:2022 - part of the ISO 21734 series - defines a general framework for performance testing of connectivity and safety functions for automated driving buses (ADB) in public transport. Published in 2022, this International Standard describes the ADB system components, their functions and requirements, and the operation scheme for ADBs (SAE level 4 or higher) operating within public transit networks. It forms the basis for developing test methods and performance procedures that ensure safe, connected ADB services.
Key topics and technical requirements
- ADB system components: clear definitions and roles for the ADB itself and supporting elements such as the monitoring and control (MC) centre, IoT infrastructure, smart bus stations, and ADB user components.
- Safety aspects: requirements for operation safety and safety functions that enable ADBs to respond to pedestrians, bicyclists and unexpected events while providing public transport services.
- Connectivity aspects: requirements to ensure reliable connectivity between ADBs and traffic signal networks, MC centres and roadside infrastructure; emphasis on maintaining the information feed required for safe operation.
- Data sets and service information: specification of the transport information needed for operations (e.g., signal status, boarding/alighting data, bus priority signals, roadside signage, energy/battery status).
- Use cases and scenarios: structured reference use cases for operational testing including intersections (left/right turns, straight), crosswalks (signalized and non-signalized), and bus stop/station scenarios (with/without bay).
- Framework requirements: component-level requirements for safety, connectivity and service operation to guide public authorities, operators and vendors in system design and testing.
- Note: ISO 21734-1:2022 contains no normative references and is the general framework (Part 1) for the wider ISO 21734 series.
Practical applications
- Developing national or local performance test procedures for ADB deployments.
- Designing interoperability and connectivity testing between buses, traffic signals and monitoring centres.
- Defining minimum safety requirements and validation criteria for public transport ADB operations.
- Informing procurement, pilot projects and system integration for automated transit services.
Who should use this standard
- Public transport operators and transit agencies
- Public transport governing authorities and regulators
- Vehicle OEMs, suppliers and system integrators implementing ADB solutions
- Test laboratories and certification bodies developing ADB performance tests
Related standards
- Part of the ISO 21734 series (see ISO website for other parts) and relevant to standards on intelligent transport systems, automated driving levels, and ITS connectivity testing.