Jacksonville Introduces Public Service for Self-Driving Vehicles

Jacksonville Launches First Autonomous Vehicle Public Transport Service

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) has made a significant stride in transportation innovation with the launch of its new autonomous vehicle (AV) service named NAVI. This project, part of a broader initiative known as the Ultimate Urban Circulator (U2C), is designed to solve transportation challenges, build communities, and make Jacksonville a leader in North America in AV technology.

NAVI vehicles, initially a fleet of 14 modified electric Ford e-Transit vans equipped with Oxa's automated driving system, began operations on Monday, 30 June 2025. These vehicles accommodate up to nine passengers and are ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for all.

The service corridor spans a 3.5-mile stretch of Bay Street in downtown Jacksonville, linking Pearl Street and EverBank Stadium. NAVI vehicles stop at 12 dedicated stations and serve locations such as the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, the Florida Theatre, the Naval Museum, and various hotels, restaurants, and venues.

The service is intended to improve access between residential areas, commercial centres, and the city's sports and entertainment district. By doing so, NAVI aims to contribute to making Jacksonville a great city, aligning with the JTA's goal for the project.

NAVI operates Monday to Friday, from 7am to 7pm. Until the end of September 2025, the service will be fare-free, making it a practical and publicly accessible approach to AV technology integration.

The JTA has plans to introduce HOLON autonomous shuttles in future phases, with availability expected from 2027. Phases 2 and 3 of the U2C plan will link the downtown core with other neighbourhoods, including Springfield, Brooklyn, Riverside, and San Marco.

Cities involved in autonomous vehicle integration projects include Miami and Tampa in Florida, as well as major North American cities like San Francisco, Toronto, and Phoenix. Jacksonville plans to modernize its Skyway infrastructure for AV use within the next ten years as part of the U2C initiative.

The NAVI project forms part of a wider effort to test and integrate AV technology into existing transport systems. By doing so, Jacksonville is not just a local player but a part of a broader initiative, contributing to the development and upgrade of transport systems over the next decade.

NAVI is described as the first autonomous vehicle public transport revenue service in the United States. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the adoption of AV technology, paving the way for a more accessible, independent, and connected future for Jacksonville's residents and visitors.