Autonomous Vehicles for Public Transportation: The Growing Interest of Local Authorities and Mobility Operators in Renault Group's Approach

7:11 pm UTC March 17, 2025 Mar 17, 2025 | by: Renault Group | Transport

(Photo by: Renault Group)

Renault Group believes that autonomous public transport vehicles have an essential role to play as authorities and operators begin making key decisions about the future of mobility.

Boulogne-Billancourt, 11 March 2025
In May 2024, Renault Group revealed its autonomous vehicle strategy and, in collaboration with WeRide, embarked on a pioneering experiment in Europe. For the first time, two autonomous miniBuses were tested on open roads during the Roland-Garros tennis tournament. This trial covered 1,000 kilometers and successfully transported nearly 700 passengers, proving both the technical readiness and the value of this innovative transportation solution.

Following this success, numerous mobility stakeholders—including local authorities, transportation operators, and private site managers—have expressed significant interest in adopting this solution. New trials are now underway across Europe, with locations like Zurich (Switzerland), Valence (France), and Barcelona (Spain) participating. More announcements are expected soon.

Barcelona, Spain: Autonomous Public Transport in a Major European Hub
From 10 to 14 March, Renault Group and WeRide are showcasing the future of urban mobility with two autonomous electric miniBuses operating along a 2.2-kilometer loop in central Barcelona. This trial, conducted in a bustling and complex urban environment, highlights the technological maturity of automated public transport services.

This initiative also demonstrates Renault Group's broader vision for European public transportation: using autonomous mobility to make cities more livable, enhance accessibility, and promote efficient, sustainable transit solutions.

Valence, France: Making Mobility Easier in Peri-Urban Areas
In Valence, Renault Group is working with partners to implement a commercial service for Level 4 automated shuttles, slated to launch in July 2025 following a trial phase from 10 March to 19 April. This project, in partnership with local operator beti, insurer Macif, and WeRide, will connect the TGV railway station to a 162-hectare business park housing 150 companies and 3,000 employees. The 3.3-kilometer route of the shuttles will address the specific needs of passengers traveling between the station, a remote parking area, and the business park's food services.

The collaboration between these four key players underscores a shared vision: using autonomous mobility to unlock the potential of rural and peri-urban areas, accelerate the green transition, and improve access to jobs, healthcare, education, and leisure.

Zurich Airport, Switzerland: Autonomous Vehicles in a High-Security Setting
Since January 2025, Renault Group’s partner WeRide has been conducting a trial at Zurich Airport, deploying autonomous vehicles to help employees move between terminals. This test demonstrates the capability of autonomous technology to operate in highly secure, complex environments while meeting strict safety and reliability standards.

Renault Group’s Autonomous Vehicle Strategy
Renault Group is approaching the development of autonomous vehicles in a pragmatic and strategic way, with a clear distinction between individual vehicle needs and public transportation requirements. For personal vehicles, the Group is focusing on market-leading Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Systems, offering L2 or L2+ assistance. These technologies enhance safety and comfort while keeping the driver in control.

At the same time, Renault Group remains agile and open to advancements, particularly with respect to regulations and costs. The company is prepared to introduce more advanced autonomous driving features for personal vehicles when market conditions align.

In the realm of public transportation, Renault Group sees a near-term opportunity for Level 4 autonomous vehicles. These vehicles can operate autonomously within a defined Operational Design Domain (ODD) with remote supervision, eliminating the need for an onboard operator. As cities increasingly establish low-emission zones, local authorities face unprecedented public transportation challenges. It’s projected that thousands of autonomous electric miniBuses will be needed in the coming decade. Through various trials, Renault Group has demonstrated that these miniBuses can offer a flexible, accessible, secure, and carbon-free solution.

As a leader in carbon-free mobility, Renault Group aims to launch a fully robotic electric miniBus platform by 2030, which will incorporate automation technology from specialized partners.