Human drivers rely primarily on their vision, scanning the environment through the windshield and checking mirrors. However, it’s well-known that this alone is often insufficient. Limited visibility, blind spots, and human errors—distraction, fatigue, or overconfidence—frequently lead to dangerous situations on the road.
In contrast, autonomous vehicles not only utilize advanced technology but also offer an unparalleled level of safety. Sensors continuously monitor the surroundings, acting as the vehicle’s equivalent of human sensory organs. Our Blees BB-1 autonomous minibus is equipped with 11 cameras, 7 LiDARs, 4 radars, and 3 GNSS modules. Unlike a human driver, this technological suite provides 360-degree visibility, scanning the environment multiple times per second. As a result, the BB-1 minibus always knows exactly what’s happening around it and can anticipate conditions far ahead.
Autonomous vehicles overcome human limitations—they are never distracted, fatigued, or influenced by emotions. They consistently follow traffic rules and make predictable decisions, ensuring a higher level of safety compared to conventional buses.
Blees BB-1 bus during tests in winter conditions
At Blees, we focus on integrating multiple technologies to achieve maximum precision and reliability. A key aspect of our approach is the fusion of data from diverse sources. For navigation and spatial awareness, we rely primarily on LiDARs, which create detailed 3D maps of the surroundings using laser pulses. GNSS provides precise satellite navigation, while IMU (Inertial Measurement Units) tracks movement and orientation. These systems work together to deliver highly accurate positioning—a critical feature in demanding winter conditions. Cameras, currently used for supplementary purposes, will play an increasingly significant role in the future for tasks such as object categorization and lane detection. Meanwhile, radars, which operate on radio waves, complement LiDARs by compensating for their limitations in adverse weather conditions. This combination allows the BB-1 minibus to react faster and more effectively than a human, significantly reducing the risks associated with relying on a single type of sensor.
We understand that every sensor has its limitations. For instance:
Unlike some manufacturers that rely heavily on one sensor type (e.g., cameras), Blees emphasizes redundancy, integrating diverse sensor technologies to achieve greater reliability—even in harsh winter conditions.
In Poland, snow days are relatively few, limiting opportunities for extensive winter testing. However, during the snowy days available, we refined solutions that enable Blees vehicles to operate smoothly and reliably. This was validated through pilot programs.
During a four-week trial in late 2023 in Gliwice, Poland, our BB-1 minibus safely transported 2,800 passengers despite winter challenges. Additionally, ongoing internal tests near Blees’ Gliwice headquarters, in a real-world environment with active traffic and pedestrians, provided further insights. For example, we optimized data filtering to reduce interference from wet road surfaces. Even under heavy snowfall, minor sensor recalibrations ensured the bus quickly resumed full operational capacity.
At Blees, we are committed to developing technologies that ensure mobility regardless of weather conditions. Our rigorous testing and real-world experiences give us confidence that our solutions meet winter’s challenges, providing safety and comfort to passengers.
As CTO of Blees, I take great pride in how our teams passionately and tirelessly work to advance innovative solutions that redefine public transportation. Knowing our buses can operate safely even in the most demanding conditions is a source of immense satisfaction. Our focus on safety and unwavering dedication to creating reliable products demonstrate that Blees is ready to set new benchmarks in the autonomous driving.Łukasz Wójcik, CTO
