South Hesse introduces autonomous cars for public transport via a pilot project by Deutsche Bahn and Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbund (RMV).
Test users can book rides via an app within a designated area. This marks the first time in Germany that public transport users can ride in self-driving cars.
A safety driver is present during the test phase for emergencies, while a control center monitors the autonomous vehicle. The project, named "Kira," is funded with approximately 2.2 million euros from the Federal Ministry of Transport and additional funds from RMV.
Initially, two vehicles operate in Langen and Egelsbach, with Darmstadt to follow. The on-demand service aims to make public transport more appealing and flexible, especially in less urban areas.
Test rides are free for selected participants. Similar autonomous vehicle projects are underway in Hamburg and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.