Hamburg tests autonomous buses in city traffic

Hamburg is taking a significant step in the mobility transition: From mid-2025, the ALIKE project will begin test operations for autonomous on-demand ridepooling. The planned operating area stretches from Stadtpark to the Elbe and from Schlump to Wandsbek, covering central parts of the city. The aim is to make autonomous mobility a tangible experience and to expand local public transport with innovative services.

Two fully electric, autonomous vehicle models will be used as part of the project. MOIA plans to put the Volkswagen ID. Buzz AD, a compact vehicle for up to four people that is specially designed for urban use. At the same time, HOLON will be testing a fully accessible vehicle with space for up to 15 passengers. In total, up to 20 autonomous vehicles from both operators will be on the road, which can be booked digitally via the hvv switch and MOIA apps.

MOIA and Volkswagen ADMT have already started the first user group tests. Media representatives and Hamburg's transport senator Dr. Anjes Tjarks were given an insight into the current state of development of autonomous driving in dense city traffic. The ID. Buzz AD is equipped with 13 cameras, nine lidars and five radars that enable real-time detection of the surroundings. High-performance computers process this data into precise driving commands, supported by redundant systems for braking, steering and power supply.

Dr. Anjes Tjarks emphasized the importance of the project: “With the operation of autonomous shuttles in the center of Hamburg, we are taking another decisive step towards the public transport of the future. Autonomous ridepooling is the missing piece of the puzzle between traditional buses and trains and people's individual mobility needs.”

These developments mark an important milestone on the way to more flexible and efficient public transport in Hamburg.