Coventry University builds autonomous Christmas sled

Working from home might sound like an impossible task for Santa Claus, but researchers at Coventry University have found a great solution to allow Santa to stay in his workshop this year. At least, that's how the scientists are promoting their pre-Christmas and post-pandemic concept. In light of the current Plan B guidelines, which urge people to work from home if possible, the Centre for Future Transport and Cities at Coventry University quickly addressed the problem. Drawing on their concept of an autonomous, pandemic-proof car of the future, the team developed the idea for a self-driving, autonomous super sleigh. This is intended to ensure that the "Man in Red" can fulfill all his gift obligations as usual, as the designers outline. Without a driver and without reindeer, the sleigh could travel around the globe delivering gifts - all in a COVID-safe manner.
 

Serious Basis: Pandemic-proof Concept

Because the basis is the pandemic-safe vehicle concept presented last year. It features UV lights for cleaning between trips, a configurable interior that offers passengers their own personal space, and touchless doors that open automatically. Although the designers had some fun with the super sleigh, it highlights some of the advantages that autonomous vehicles can bring when it comes to reducing contact with other people in the event of a pandemic.

"Since Santa is working from home this year on Plan B, we are assisting him with a self-driving autonomous super sleigh. So there’s no need to worry – all presents will be delivered on time this Christmas," jokes Paul Herriotts, Professor of Transportation Design at Coventry University.