NCDOT: CASSI - Frequently Asked Questions

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How long will the shuttle be tested at Wright Brothers National Memorial?
The shuttle will be tested from April 20 through July 14, 2021. It will operate Tuesdays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where will the shuttle stop within the park?
The shuttle will pick up and drop off passengers at the visitor center parking lot and the First Flight bronze sculpture. Due to the projected demand of the shuttle, passengers will be required to disembark the shuttle at each stop (no continuous round trip, unless nobody is waiting to board). It is expected that most passengers will start their trips at the visitor center parking lot.
Is there a driver?
As an autonomous vehicle, the CASSI shuttle does not have a driver or feature a traditional steering wheel or manual brakes. The vehicle will, however, have a customer service operator on board to take control of the vehicle, if it becomes necessary. This operator also can answer questions and provide information about CASSI.
Is CASSI safe?
Yes. Numerous sensors are continuously scanning the shuttle's surroundings and signaling for it to stop when an obstacle is too close. Also, the shuttle is monitored by an on-board customer service operator who can manually stop the vehicle at any time.
How much does it cost to ride CASSI?
During the pilot deployments, there is no cost to ride CASSI.
How many passengers can CASSI accommodate?
The shuttle can seat five people from one household and the operator. It can seat three people from different households and the operator. These numbers were adjusted to comply with COVID safety recommendations.
Will passengers be required to wear masks on the shuttle?
If a federal mask-wearing requirement on federal land is in place during the three-month pilot, then masks will be required on the shuttle.
Is the CASSI wheelchair-accessible?
Yes. The CASSI is equipped with an automatic wheelchair ramp.
Where will CASSI operate?
The shuttle may only drive in pre-designated locations on approved sites. Currently, the CASSI is in operation at the Wright Brothers National Memorial. The shuttle may only operate on lower speed roadways (both public and private), not on highways. It is a transportation option designed to transport passengers throughout communities, campuses and parks, and is also a potential first/last mile solution.
Why does CASSI travel so slowly?
Safety is always the top priority, and maximum speeds are limited by current technology, roadway configurations and other factors. As technology improves, speed will as well.
Are dogs allowed on board?
Only approved service animals are permitted on the CASSI.

2/7/2020 11:11 AM