Seeing Machines Limited (AIM: SEE) , the provider of AI-enabled driver monitoring technology, has won a contract with the UK’s leading coach operator, National Express.
National Express is to install Seeing Machines’ driver monitoring technology “Guardian”, into its vehicles across its UK white fleet coach network and The King’s Ferry operations.
The contract is for four years, and the technology is expected to be installed into around 700 vehicles by the end of 2019.
Guardian uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) detects driver drowsiness and distraction by analysis of heads, faces and eyes with a Driver Monitoring System (DMS).
Shares in Seeing Machines rose 8% following the announcement
Paul McGlone, CEO of Seeing Machines, said: "National Express operates a sophisticated, multi-national organisation. Safety is paramount when individuals entrust you to get them from point A to point B, and that's where Guardian steps in. National Express will leverage our leading Guardian solution to improve the working environment of employees and the safety of passengers.”
He added: "Our engagement with National Express signifies the growing adoption of our Guardian technology in the bus and coach sector, as we continue to grow our client base in this transport segment with many large well-known global brands."
Driver Monitoring Systems are increasingly seen to be an integral safety feature across the Commercial Transport & Logistics industry. It is set to become a regulatory requirement for all cars, vans, trucks and buses in Europe from 2022, with the rest of the world expected to follow soon after.
Ed Rickard, Service Delivery Director at National Express, said: "Safety for employees, passengers and other road users is our number one priority and we pride ourselves on always pushing ahead with the use of training and technology in this area. Guardian will provide additional support to our drivers and further enhance the overall safety of our operations."
National Express UK Coach operates 1,800 scheduled services every day to a network of around 750 locations across the UK and carried over 20 million passengers in 2018.
The National Express Group,also operates across Europe, North America, North Africa and the Middle East, responsible for passengers making nearly 1 billion trips annually.
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