Drivers are no longer needed: Croatia is set to become the first country in Europe to launch a fully-fledged robotaxi service
This was reported by the specialist publication Motor.es.
The implementation of this revolutionary project has been made possible by the combined efforts of three key market players. Each party is responsible for its own area: US-based Uber provides the service, Chinese developer Pony.ai supplies cutting-edge autonomous driving systems, and Croatian company Verne is developing the necessary infrastructure on the ground. The partners’ main goal is to create a scalable model for autonomous transport that can subsequently be rolled out in other European capitals. Despite strict EU regulatory requirements, Zagreb is set to become the first city where thousands of driverless cars will take to the roads.
Drivers are no longer needed in this system, as Pony.ai’s technology enables vehicles to navigate complex urban traffic conditions independently. The commercial launch of robotaxis in 2026 will mark Europe’s first significant step towards the mass automation of transport systems. This will significantly reduce accident rates, ease congestion and improve the efficiency of urban space utilisation. Zagreb is effectively becoming a ‘laboratory of the future’, the results of which will shape the development of autonomous transport in Europe for decades to come.
Experts note that a successful launch in Zagreb will pave the way for the widespread automation of transport systems across the European Union. This will radically change urban mobility and the approach to private car ownership. The project by Verne and its partners aims to create an affordable and environmentally friendly service that will reduce congestion and improve road safety. Zagreb is effectively becoming the first city in the EU where robotaxis will operate as a fully-fledged commercial transport service.
