Level 4 autonomous shuttles have been launched in the Rhein-Main region (Langen and Egelsbach, Offenbach district) of Germany as part of the Kira project.
Kira, which means “AI-based regular operation of autonomous on-demand services,” is the first project in Germany to test Level 4 autonomous vehicles with passengers in live road traffic. Level 4 signifies autonomous operation within a defined area, with the vehicle making all driving decisions.
Autonomous project partners
The project is led by Deutsche Bahn (DB) and transport association Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbund (RMV), with technology company Mobileye supplying the self-driving technology, HD maps, and specialised sensors. Journeys are booked via the dedicated Kira-app, powered by digital mobility technology company ioki’s on-demand software.
The six vehicles operate in the service areas of regional project partners HEAG mobilo and Kreisverkehrsgesellschaft Offenbach (kvgOF).
The project aims to provide flexible, on-demand services that enhance mobility, particularly in suburban and rural areas. Ioki’s technology includes booking and route planning software, which provides intelligent route optimisation. The platform integrates critical software components from various technology partners, ensuring seamless operation of the autonomous fleet.
Read more: smartcitiesworld.net
