Urban Innovate TALKS

Dr Henriette Cornet

5.0 (2)
TECHNOLOGY

Urban Innovate TALKS explores how cities, technology, and people shape the future of mobility. Hosted by Dr. Henriette Cornet, the series features conversations with global experts on autonomous vehicles, public transit, and the human side of innovation — including insights from pulsur, our AI platform for understanding public sentiment and travel behavior.

10/12/2025

#4 The Ethics Layer of AI with Dr Katie Evans

In this episode of Urban Innovate TALKS, host Henriette Cornet engages with philosopher Katie Evans to explore the intersection of AI, ethics, and public transportation. They discuss the importance of critical thinking in technology, the emotional responses to AI-related incidents, and the societal implications of automation. The conversation also delves into the development of a new AI tool, pulsur, and the ethical considerations that come with designing AI systems. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the need for transparency, moral responsibility, and the impact of technology on human agency and public life. Takeaways Philosophy encourages critical thinking about technology.AI literacy is distinct from science fiction.Public perception of AI incidents is often emotional.Automation raises questions about job displacement.Public transportation should maintain anonymity.AI tools must balance control and flexibility.Ethical considerations are crucial in AI design.Transparency in data collection is essential.The future of cities involves complex moral questions.Technology should enhance, not diminish human agency. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Urban Innovate Talks02:29 Exploring Philosophy and AI Ethics05:41 The Role of Science Fiction in AI Literacy08:14 Understanding Autonomous Vehicles and Public Perception09:25 The Emotional Impact of AI-Related Incidents12:17 The Intersection of Automation and Employment14:56 The Future of Public Transportation and Anonymity17:37 The Development of Pulsar: A New AI Tool20:21 Ethical Considerations in AI Design23:26 Final Thoughts on AI, Ethics, and Society

33 min
10/12/2025

#3 Holon's vision for public AVs with Alex Hansen

In this episode of Urban Innovate Talks, Henriette Cornet interviews Alex Hansen, the director of sales at Holon, a company focused on developing autonomous shuttles. They discuss Holon's unique position in the market, its partnerships, and the technology behind its vehicles. The conversation also covers Holon's expansion plans in the US, particularly in Jacksonville, where they plan to establish a manufacturing plant. Hansen emphasizes the importance of regulatory compliance and the need for public acceptance of autonomous vehicles. The episode concludes with a discussion on the potential use cases for Holon's shuttles in urban transit systems. Takeaways Holon is a young company with a startup character.The company combines innovation with the experience of its parent company, Bentle.Holon focuses on developing fully autonomous shuttles for public transport.Partnerships with companies like Mobileye are crucial for Holon's technology.The US market is seen as an early adopter for autonomous vehicles.Jacksonville is a strategic location for Holon's manufacturing plant.Holon aims to produce 5,000 vehicles annually at its Jacksonville plant.Regulatory challenges exist, particularly regarding vehicle approvals.Holon seeks to educate transit agencies on the benefits of autonomous shuttles.The company envisions its vehicles as a solution for last-mile connectivity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Holon and Its Vision04:25 Holon's Unique Position in the Market06:08 Development and Testing of Autonomous Shuttles10:28 Partnerships and Technology Integration13:19 Holon's Role in the Mobility Ecosystem15:46 Expansion Plans in the US Market20:27 Jacksonville: A Strategic Location for Holon23:56 Production Capacity and Future Plans25:49 Regulatory Challenges and Market Adaptation27:53 Addressing Transit Agency Needs32:20 Use Cases for Autonomous Shuttles35:08 Deconstructing Misconceptions About Autonomous Vehicles

28 min
10/12/2025

#2 Planning for Sustainability with Tammy Seale

In this conversation, the focus is on climate action and sustainability, featuring insights from Tammy, a principal at Placeworks. The discussion covers the importance of climate action planning, the roles of mitigation and adaptation, and the integration of technology in sustainability efforts. A case study of San Mateo's climate action plan illustrates successful community engagement and long-term goals. The conversation also addresses the challenges of polarization in climate discussions and emphasizes the need for shared values and collaboration. Takeaways Climate action is essential at multiple levels: individual, municipal, and state.Mitigation involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while adaptation prepares communities for climate impacts.Transportation is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, necessitating a focus on reducing vehicle miles traveled.Education is crucial for helping communities adapt to new sustainability practices.Technology can enhance sustainability efforts, but it doesn't always have to be high-tech.Natural solutions, like urban forestry, play a vital role in carbon sequestration.Successful climate action requires community buy-in and collaboration among stakeholders.San Mateo's climate action plan exemplifies effective community engagement and ambitious goals.Polarization in climate discussions can be mitigated by focusing on shared values and goals.Continuous learning and adaptation are key to effective climate action planning. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Climate Action and Sustainability03:07 Understanding Climate Mitigation and Adaptation06:07 The Role of Technology in Sustainability09:15 Case Study: San Mateo's Climate Action Plan14:06 Navigating Polarization in Climate Discussions

20 min
10/12/2025

#1 Marek Vanzura - Robotaxis & Co. A (hopeful) look at autonomy

In this episode of Urban Innovate Talks, host Henriette welcomes Marek Van Zura, an expert in autonomous driving technology. They discuss the current state of autonomous vehicles, the technology behind them, and the importance of HD mapping and connectivity. Marek explains the differences between teleoperated and fully autonomous vehicles, as well as the role of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The conversation also touches on the future of autonomous public transport, the challenges facing the industry, and the importance of public trust in the technology. Marek emphasizes the need for hands-on experience with autonomous vehicles and expresses optimism about their potential to improve urban mobility. Takeaways Marek Van Zura is an expert in autonomous driving technology.Autonomous vehicles are controlled by onboard computers, not humans.Reliability in AVs requires multiple types of sensors.HD maps enhance safety and operational reliability for AVs.Teleoperation is different from full autonomy; it involves remote control.Public trust is crucial for the acceptance of AVs.The future of AVs may lean towards public transport solutions.Collaboration among companies is essential for AV development.ADAS systems assist drivers but do not replace them.Real-world experience with AVs is vital for public understanding. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Urban Innovate Talks02:07 Meet Marek Van Zura: Expert in Autonomous Vehicles04:10 Understanding Autonomous Vehicles: A Simple Explanation05:38 Components of Autonomous Vehicles: Sensors and Technology09:40 Teleoperation vs. Autonomy: Key Differences15:29 The Role of HD Mapping in Autonomous Driving20:08 Connectivity and Its Importance in Autonomous Vehicles26:58 ADAS vs. Fully Autonomous Vehicles: Market Differences33:37 The Future of Autonomous Vehicles: Fleet vs. Private Ownership37:05 Exploring Different Brands and Their Approaches44:14 The Role of Collaboration in Autonomous Vehicle Development50:28 Challenges and Opportunities for Autonomous Vehicles53:02 A Bright Future for Autonomous Public Transport

56 min
10/12/2025

Trailer - Setting the scene

Urban Innovate TALKS

1 min

TRAILER

Trailer - Setting the scene

Urban Innovate TALKS

10/12/2025

•

1 min

5

out of 5

2 Ratings

Urban Innovate TALKS explores how cities, technology, and people shape the future of mobility. Hosted by Dr. Henriette Cornet, the series features conversations with global experts on autonomous vehicles, public transit, and the human side of innovation — including insights from pulsur, our AI platform for understanding public sentiment and travel behavior.

Creator

Dr Henriette Cornet
Years Active

2K
Episodes

5
Rating

Clean
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