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Self-driving cars: Available via app in Darmstadt from September!
From September 2025, self-driving cars in Darmstadt can be booked via app. Deutsche Bahn's pilot project promotes innovative mobility.
Self-driving cars: Available via app in Darmstadt from September!
From the beginning of September 2025, a new chapter in mobility will be opened in Darmstadt. Self-driving cars will then be bookable via app, and the pilot project will be carried out by Deutsche Bahn. According to n-tv, these vehicles will always have a safety driver on board who can intervene in an emergency. This ensures additional security and conveys confidence in the innovative technology.
The project, which is called “Kira” – an abbreviation for “AI-based regular operation of autonomous on-demand transport” – started on May 26, 2025 in the cities of Langen and Egelsbach in the Offenbach district. Registered testers can also request the new vehicles there via app and have them transported in the surrounding area. The self-driving cars move at regular speed, which should provide the usual driving comfort.
Positive feedback and high demand
More than 1,000 people have been approved for the project, and feedback from test users has been consistently positive. The ease of booking and the flexible use of the vehicles are particularly popular. “The equipment is great and handling is child’s play,” said one tester who had the opportunity to use the vehicles in advance. This is also reflected in the increasing demand for on-demand transport offerings that could revolutionize urban areas.
So, what does the future hold for mobility in Germany? According to the Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport, which has adopted a comprehensive strategy for autonomous driving, Germany aims to establish itself as a leading innovation and production location in this area. The strategy places a strong focus on local public transport (ÖPNV) and freight transport. The idea is that autonomous driving can not only make traffic more efficient, but also more sustainable and safer.
The advantages of autonomous driving
A crucial announcement comes from Federal Minister Volker Wissing, who draws attention to the possibility of addressing the shortage of professional drivers through autonomous driving. At the same time, it could be a valuable solution to better connect rural and remote areas. Through needs-based offerings, increasing demand for autonomous vehicles could also offer German manufacturers an economic boost.
The “Kira” project in Darmstadt is therefore not just a model experiment, but could also provide impetus for future mobility in Germany. It remains to be seen whether autonomous driving will actually be integrated into everyday traffic design across the board. However, the developments and positive experiences from the first tests offer a promising outlook on the possibilities of autonomous driving.
The Federal Ministry's complete strategy can be found online here.