Premiere for autonomous vehicles: Pilot project "Kira" launched in public transport

(dpa/lhe) Autonomous driving via app – the pilot project "Kira" is introducing self-driving cars into regular service for the first time. Southern Hesse is testing what could soon become everyday life everywhere.

The autonomous test vehicle is ready for deployment in the pilot project Kira in southern Hesse. | Photo: Oliver Lang via dpa
The autonomous test vehicle is ready for deployment in the pilot project Kira in southern Hesse. | Photo: Oliver Lang via dpa

In Langen (Offenbach district), the pilot project "Kira" will start on Monday, testing the use of autonomous cars in public transportation. The project involves Deutsche Bahn and the Rhein-Main Transport Association (RMV). It is the first time nationwide that passengers in public transport are being transported in self-driving vehicles.

Area of Application and Vehicles 

The test vehicles will initially be used in Langen and Egelsbach. There are plans to later extend the project to Darmstadt. Two cars are actively in use, with another one available as a reserve. The service will initially be available only to a designated group of test participants.

Safety Measures and Speed 

The autonomous vehicles are equipped with a safety driver who can intervene if necessary. However, all driving decisions are made by the vehicle itself. In the city, the cars drive at speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour, while on country roads speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour are possible.

On-demand traffic via app 

The project “Kira” stands for “AI-based regular operation of autonomous on-demand traffic.” Passengers can order the vehicles on-demand via an app, similar to well-known ride service platforms. With the project, Deutsche Bahn aims to complement public transport with flexible and demand-driven offerings.

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