Director of engineering and works, Gino Belsito, said he was hopeful council would be able to trial the new technology on local roads.

“A driverless shuttle bus would be a perfect solution for the connectivity, automation, safety and mobility we are looking for in the Kiama CBD,” Mr Belsito said.

“Legislation to allow driverless vehicles in NSW is already before parliament, so I want to make sure we jump on board this opportunity as quickly as possible.”

READ MORE: Hi-tech bus for Kiama’s main street?

Road safety officer Janelle Burns said the ride was a great way to mark Bus Safety Week from November 6 to 12.

“It was very useful to see first-hand how a driverless bus would work, especially all the testing and safety checks being conducted as part of the trial,” she said.

The trail is being conducted by the NSW Government at Newington Armoury in Sydney, with the shuttle running autonomously on a preprogramed route.

The plan is to eventually deploy the shuttle at Olympic Park in Homebush.

Councillor Warren Steel, who has championed the idea of a shuttle service for Kiama’s CBD, also took part in the test-ride.

“I can easily see a driverless bus travelling along Terralong Street and Manning Streets in Kiama, connecting residents and tourists to key places such as the Leisure Centre, Kiama Library, Blowhole Point and the railway station,” Cr Steel said.

Further information can be found at www.transport.nsw.gov.au/smartshuttle