Germany’s new self-driving ride could be the future of commuting
Published on Jun 02, 2025 at 10:16 PM (UTC+4)
by Jason Fan
Last updated on Jun 02, 2025 at 12:38 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Emma Matthews
Germany has just launched its first public self-driving ride service, and it’s happening in Langen, a small town just south of Frankfurt.
The project is called KIRA, and it’s a game-changer for public transport.
Instead of waiting for a bus, you can now book a ride in a self-driving shuttle using an app.
It’s like Uber, but with no driver; just hop in and go!
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KIRA is a pilot project testing Level 4 autonomous shuttles in real-world conditions.
Level 4 autonomous vehicles can do every driving task on their own, moving from point A to point B. However, a human driver is still required to override if necessary.
These shuttles are operating in Langen and the nearby municipality of Egelsbach in the Offenbach district.
Passengers can book rides through a dedicated app.
A safety driver is present, but the vehicle handles all driving maneuvers.
The service is expected to expand to parts of Darmstadt later this year.
While self-driving cars are not unheard of in major cities, the KIRA project is actually a response to the growing challenges in rural public transport.
Knut Ringat, managing director of the Rhine-Main metropolitan area’s transport association, highlighted that over 40 percent of bus drivers are over 55.
This means that there will be a shortage of drivers in the coming years.
Autonomous shuttles like KIRA could fill this gap, providing flexible, on-demand transport in areas where traditional bus services are limited.
The goal is for KIRA to become a viable alternative to other forms of public transport by 2030, especially in rural areas.
By offering 24/7 service where traditional buses might only run a few times a day, KIRA aims to make public transport more accessible and attractive for everyone.
So, if you find yourself in Langen, don’t be shocked if your ride arrives without a driver.
And if you’re feeling a little nervous, don’t be.
After all, with the way self-driving cars can pass even the weirdest of driving tests, so you’re in good hands.
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Jason joined the editorial team at Supercar Blondie in April 2025 as a Content Writer. As part of the growing editorial team working in Australia, and in synergy with team members in Dubai, the UK, and elsewhere in the world, he helps keep the site running 24/7, injecting his renowned accuracy and energy into every shift.
