Germany launches first Level 4 AV public shuttles
10 June 2025
by William Thorpe
For the first time in Germany, passengers are riding public transport operated by Level 4 autonomous vehicles.
The KIRA pilot project, now live in Langen and Egelsbach (Offenbach district), marks a significant step for the country in exploring how driverless shuttles could support local mobility–particularly in suburban and rural areas.
“Our long-term goal is for it to become standard operation across Germany,” said Patrick Schnieder, Federal Minister for Transport. “Through our funding of the KIRA project, we want to inspire local citizens about this technology. They can simply and conveniently be picked up and taken to their destination by autonomous shuttles. This makes autonomous driving tangible and demonstrates how this form of mobility can enhance people’s quality of life in the region.”
The vehicles run on-demand and can be booked via the ioki app, though registration is required. While a safety driver remains on board during this trial phase, the shuttles operate independently within defined service zones and under real traffic conditions.
Backed by Deutsche Bahn (DB) and the Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbund (RMV), the project positions itself as a testbed for integrating autonomous systems into public networks. The initiative is supported by €2.2 million in funding from the Federal Ministry for Transport and the State of Hesse.
Hesse is the first German state to allow passengers on Level 4 autonomous public shuttles. State Minister for Transport Kaweh Mansoori said the project shows how new technology can improve everyday mobility.
“Hesse is setting standards in utilising future-oriented technologies in the transport sector,” he said. “Our objective is to make public transport attractive and accessible to everyone–especially in suburban and rural areas. Autonomous driving in public transport is a crucial factor in ensuring mobility for all and improving quality of life.”
Six autonomous vehicles are now operating under the local leadership of DB Regio Bus Mitte and transport providers HEAG mobilo and kvgOF. The system uses DB subsidiary ioki’s software platform and Mobileye’s autonomous driving technology, including HD maps and sensors. Movements are monitored from a control centre throughout the test period.
The project is expected to expand to parts of Darmstadt later this year. Trial operations are scheduled to run until the end of 2025, with an extension under consideration.
Image: KIRA
