Automatic gate specialists Nice UK found themselves at the forefront of a driving experiment that could open a new route for city transport.

Toona 4 motors from the Mansfield based company were selected to automate the gates at GATEway (Greenwich Automated Transport Environment).

Installers Portcullis Automation opted for the Toona  based on reliability, ease of install and sturdy enough to withstand regular use. With a model to suit all gate sizes, the Toona is among Nice UK’s most popular product ranges nationwide.

‘All Toona motors are simple to install and maintain, with easy access to their internal parts,’ said Ian Alderson, managing director of Nice UK.

GATEway, which seeks to understand the legal, technical and social challenges associated with the coming rise of automated vehicles, is an £8 million research project based close to the Greenwich Meridian line. Its pioneering work is attracting attention worldwide.

Since the project was launched in 2016, it has published useful research about the perception and acceptance of driverless vehicles in the UK, drawing attention to some of the issues that may be ahead as autonomous cars become a reality in towns and cities.