Hamburg is taking a major step toward autonomous driving in public transport. Federal Transport Minister Volker Wissing recently presented a symbolic check for €26 million to project partners Hochbahn, Moia, and bus manufacturer Holon. This funding will enable the launch of the ALIKE project, which aims to develop and test autonomous shuttle buses that can be booked via an app and pick up passengers directly to take them to their destination.
According to Minister Wissing, autonomous driving can help relieve traffic congestion in large cities while increasing mobility. The digital booking system for these shuttles also offers the advantage of combining trips, thus saving time and money.
Hamburg's vision is to encourage drivers to give up their cars and switch to these autonomous minibuses instead. Transport Senator Anjes Tjarks emphasized the need for this technology, especially with regard to the Hamburg Takt, which aims to make public transport available throughout the city within five minutes.
Despite the advantages of autonomous driving, there are also concerns. According to a Statista survey, 40 percent of German citizens do not trust autonomous vehicles. Part of the funding will therefore also be invested in measures to strengthen confidence in this technology and ensure that it is accepted by the population.
Finally, Hamburg aims to take on a pioneering role in Germany with this initiative and establish itself as a leading center for autonomous driving systems. With the support of MOIA and Hochbahn, which are developing two different types of buses, this service is expected to be made available to the public within the next two to three years.
Hamburg's commitment to autonomous shuttle buses demonstrates the city's determination to find innovative solutions to the challenges of urban transport while strengthening Germany's position as an automotive hub.