Autonomous Transit and Accessibility: A Conversation with Gregory Crandell of HOLON US Inc.

In this episode of Visions of BVA, host Steve Baskis sits down with Gregory Crandell, General Manager of HOLON US Inc., to discuss the future of autonomous shuttle transportation and what it could mean for blind and visually impaired riders. Gregory shares his background in the automotive industry and explains how HOLON's autonomous vehicle is being developed to support first-mile/last-mile transportation—helping people travel from neighborhoods and smaller roads to larger transit routes and transportation hubs. The conversation explores how the vehicle is being designed with accessibility in mind, including input from focus groups involving blind, wheelchair, and hearing-impaired riders. Steve and Gregory also discuss the importance of consistent audio communication, safety redundancy, and how autonomous transit could expand mobility options for veterans and others who rely on public transportation. This episode offers a look at how emerging transportation technology may help improve independence, confidence, and access for the blind and visually impaired community.