ULTIMO at TRA Budapest 2026
The Transport Research Arena (TRA) 2026 brings together industry leaders, researchers, policymakers and mobility stakeholders to exchange knowledge, foster collaboration, and advance innovative, inclusive and sustainable transport solutions. The 2026 edition will take place in Budapest, Hungary.
The ULTIMO project is proud to take part in TRA 2026. Our presence includes a demonstration of automated shuttle services, an exhibition presence, and contributions highlighting the project’s work on the future of autonomous and connected mobility.
We invite you to discover ULTIMO’s activities at TRA 2026 and learn more about how the project is helping shape the next generation of public transport and automated mobility services.
ULTIMO live demo
At TRA 2026, the ULTIMO project will showcase advanced AI-based safety systems through its automated shuttle demonstration. The vehicle is equipped with innovative technologies designed to support safe, reliable and trustworthy autonomous mobility operations.
The shuttle features real-time video- and audio-based recognition systems designed to detect critical incidents inside the vehicle. These systems can identify situations such as aggressive behaviour, falls, vandalism, harassment, and potential threats through video-based detection. Audio-based detection can recognise shouting, distress signals, glass breaking, and sudden loud noises.
To protect passenger privacy, no video or audio recordings are stored. Detection is triggered only in the case of specific incidents.
When an abnormal event is detected, the system automatically sends an alert to the remote supervision centre, allowing immediate follow-up actions such as establishing communication with the vehicle or dispatching an intervention team.
In addition, the system can estimate the number of passengers on board in order to help address potential overcrowding and unauthorised travel.
Together, these services help enhance safety and strengthen trust in autonomous mobility, contributing to a secure and reassuring passenger experience.
This demonstration offers visitors the opportunity to experience firsthand how innovative safety technologies can support the deployment of autonomous transport services in real-world conditions.
Enhancing Safety and Trust in Autonomous Mobility
Advanced AI-based safety systems contribute to a secure and reassuring experience for passengers riding in autonomous shuttles. While the journey feels simple and smooth, these technologies operate discreetly in the background to help ensure safe and reliable service for all passengers.
Detection of Abnormal Events
The system is designed to detect critical incidents in real time through video and audio-based recognition. These detection capabilities focus on specific types of events, including:
1. Video-based detection:
- Fighting or aggressive behavior
- Someone falling down
- Acts of vandalism or harassment
- Possible threats (e.g., terrorism-related behavior)
2. Audio-based detection:
- Shouting or distress
- Glass breaking
- Sudden loud bangs or gunshot-like sounds
Ensuring passenger privacy, video and audio are not recorded or stored. Detections are only triggered when specific incidents occur.
Alert to the Supervision Center
When such events are detected, an instant automatic alert is sent to the remote supervision center. From there, appropriate follow-up actions can be taken—such as initiating communication with the vehicle or dispatching an intervention team.
Passenger Counting
The system also estimates the number of passengers onboard to help tackle:
- Potential overcrowding
- Unauthorized travel