Self-driving "Roboats" ready for testing on Amsterdam's canals


Researchers trial autonomous boats on Amsterdams waterways in the Netherlands October 27 2021. REUTERSPiroschka van de Wouw

Researchers trial autonomous boats on Amsterdam's waterways in the Netherlands October 27, 2021. REUTERS/Piroschka van de Wouw

AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - Visitors to Amsterdam may soon spot a self-driving watercraft the size of a small car cruising silently through its ancient canals, ferrying passengers or transporting goods or trash.

It will be the electric-powered "Roboat", a catchier name than "autonomous floating vehicle" for a project shortly due to start test journeys aimed at improving the crowded city's transport options.

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