Check out the first images of Rimac’s new driverless Robotaxi set for 2026 launch

The first-look images of the Bugatti Rimac-backed autonomous robotaxi service have been revealed. 

The company – which has been named Verne, after the famed author Jules Verne – is set to launch in the Croatian city of Zagreb in 2026, before it rolls out to other cities. 

Previously known as Project 3 Mobility, Bugatti Rimac CEO Mate Rimac has been quietly working away on the company for years. 

And yesterday – June 26 – he officially launched the brand. 

READ MORE! Rimac CEO teases autonomous robotaxi that will ‘change the lives of more people’

“The best possible mobility experience for everyone”

New images show the stylish two-door hatchbacks that will be used at Verne. The swish-looking motors look to be a lot larger than the models other robotaxi companies have shared – particularly the teeny tiny TAXI for one concept. 

Rimac has hailed his new venture as the ‘best possible mobility experience for everyone’. 

“This means that every customer will have a better experience than the best mobility services enjoyed by the very rich, through a service that is affordable for all,” he said in a statement. 

“You will have a safe and reliable driver, a vehicle with more interior space and comfort than the best limousines, and a service that will be tailored to your needs in every possible way.”

The cars have been specially designed as autonomous vehicles and, as such, they don’t come with steering wheels or pedals. 

The twin-sliding doors give access to a two-seat cabin that is heavy on the luxe details including a 43-inch widescreen, a 17-speaker audio system, and five-position reclining seats.

Via the app, riders will be able to change the environment such as adjusting the temperature, lighting and even the scent inside the car. 

The robotaxi is roomier than a Rolls-Royce inside

The roominess of the vehicle could be a game changer for the autonomous taxi industry. 

“There is more space inside than a Rolls-Royce to relax and spend your time, designer Adriano Mudri told Wired. 

“We optimized the door opening so people can just step in and sit down straight away. Sliding doors were designed not to obstruct traffic flow around the vehicle.”

Rimac received $213 million (€200m) from the EU to develop robotaxis, as part of a $6.7 billion (€6.3bn) recovery plan for Croatia – but in the longer term, Verne has already signed contracts with 10 other cities across the globe. 

And CEO Marko Pejkovic said the company is in talks with 20 more cities – meaning Verne could be heading to a street near you in the not-so-distant future. 

Of course, there are already some big names in the robotaxi game. 

Earlier this week a Tesla employee shared a clip demonstrating how its autonomous taxi service will work. 

Meanwhile, we’ve already seen them being used on the streets of Las Vegas.

So it seems like this really could be the future of taxis – and there’s no need to make small talk with the driver.

Perfect – unless you’re a taxi driver, perhaps?