The role of humanoid robots in future public transport systems
Abstract
As autonomous shuttles eliminate on-board staff, public transportation faces a critical loss of human assistance. We propose integrating humanoid robots to complement autonomous shuttles, restoring essential passenger support and safety roles. This novel concept directly addresses this critical gap and could ensure user-friendly and inclusive transit experiences in automated systems in the future. Our perspective highlights the relevance of humanoid robots for future mobility systems, with broad implications for efficient, accessible, and resilient transportation systems.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Robotic Locomotion and Control
Social Robot Interaction and HRI
Autonomous Vehicle Technology and Safety
Publication details
- Journal / source
- npj Sustainable Mobility and Transport
- Publisher
- Springer Science and Business Media LLC
- Volume
- 3
- Issue
- 1
- Publication date
- 18 March 2026
- Language
- EN