Renault’s driverless mini-bus is now being tested in Barcelona, offering free rides on a public route. The electric vehicle marks a significant step in Europe’s autonomous transport future.
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| Barcelona hosts trials for Renault’s driverless electric bus. With a smooth ride and cutting-edge technology, this marks a major move towards autonomous public transport in Europe. Image: Barcelona Secreta |
Barcelona, Spain — March 15, 2025:
Renault has launched the testing of its driverless electric mini-bus in Barcelona, offering commuters a glimpse into the future of public transport. The vehicle, which is navigating a 2.2-km (1.3-mile) route through the heart of the city, provides free rides to passengers eager to experience autonomous travel firsthand, reads a Barcelona Secreta.
This innovative project, a collaboration between Renault and WeRide, an autonomous vehicle company, is part of the company’s broader push to introduce self-driving vehicles to urban settings. After its unveiling at the French Open, the vehicle has now made its way onto the streets of Barcelona, with additional tests being conducted in cities like Valence, France, and Zurich, Switzerland.
Equipped with 10 cameras and eight lidar sensors, the electric bus operates autonomously, managing lane changes, braking, and stops without human intervention. Designed for high-density environments, it’s capable of navigating busy streets, interacting with cars, motorcycles, and pedestrians. The bus can travel up to 120 kilometers on a single charge and reach a top speed of 40 km/h (25 mph).
Unlike the U.S. and China, which are heavily invested in autonomous transport, Europe has been slow to embrace self-driving vehicles. Patrick Vergelas, head of Renault’s autonomous mobility projects, explained, “The U.S. and China are already ahead in testing autonomous vehicles. We aim to demonstrate that this technology is ready for Europe and prepare cities for a future with self-driving public transport.”
The response from Barcelona residents has been overwhelmingly positive. Pau Cugat, an 18-year-old student, compared the experience to a ride on a traditional bus, noting, “We passed a regular bus, and I thought, ‘This is the past, and right behind it is the future.’”
Though reactions have ranged from excitement to curiosity, Carlos Santos from Renault’s autonomous driving team reassured that the vehicle’s safety measures were solid, despite some passengers trying to open the doors.
City officials reported no incidents involving the autonomous bus, marking the trial as a safe and successful step toward revolutionizing public transport in Europe. As autonomous vehicles gain traction globally, Barcelona is becoming a key testing ground for the future of urban mobility.