Renault starts real world testing for driverless electric buses

Renault Group, in collaboration with its partner WeRide, is making significant strides in the field of autonomous public transportation. The automotive giant aims to revolutionise the way we think about mobility, particularly in urban and peri-urban environments. This initiative aligns with growing interest from local authorities and mobility operators eager to adopt sustainable and efficient transport solutions.

Technical and Operational Advancements

In May 2024, Renault Group launched its first open-road experiment in Europe, showcasing two autonomous electric miniBuses during the international Roland-Garros tennis tournament. This initiative successfully transported nearly 700 passengers over 1,000 kilometres, affirming the practicality and readiness of the technology. These miniBuses, powered by advanced battery technology capable of covering significant distances on a single charge, represent a leap towards more sustainable city planning and carbon reduction efforts.

Strategic Expansion Across Key European Cities

The positive response from this initial test has spurred further experiments across Europe, each tailored to the unique demands of their respective locales:

• Barcelona, Spain (10-14 March): Renault and WeRide are testing two autonomous electric miniBuses on a 2.2-kilometre loop in central Barcelona. This test aims to address the challenges of dense urban environments and demonstrate the buses' ability to enhance city livability and accessibility.

• Valence, France (10 March – 19 April): With a focus on peri-urban connectivity, this experiment involves a shuttle service linking the Valence TGV station to a local business park. The 3.3-kilometre route aims to serve the station, a long-term car park, and a catering hub, simplifying daily commutes for thousands of employees and visitors.

• Zurich Airport, Switzerland: Since January 2025, autonomous shuttles have been facilitating employee travel between airport terminals. This setting tests the buses' capabilities in high-security areas and their potential to improve operational efficiency within constrained environments.

Future Prospects and Innovations

Renault Group is not merely focusing on current technologies but is also preparing for future advancements. By 2030, the company plans to introduce a roboticised electric miniBus platform that can integrate various automation solutions from specialised partners. This forward-looking approach ensures that Renault remains adaptable to evolving market conditions and regulatory landscapes.

WeRide: A Pivotal Role in Autonomous Technology

WeRide, renowned for its extensive experience in vehicle automation, brings valuable expertise to this partnership. With over 1,200 autonomous vehicles, including 300 miniBuses, already covering more than 40 million kilometres across Asia, the Middle East, and North America, WeRide's technology is pivotal in advancing Renault's public transport initiatives.

The Bigger Picture: Autonomous Public Transport

For public transportation, Renault sees immediate potential in deploying Level 4 autonomous vehicles—those capable of operating independently within specific design domains without onboard drivers. This technology is crucial for cities implementing low-emission zones and seeking innovative solutions to mobility challenges. According to Renault, the adoption of such technologies is not just about easing traffic congestion but also about opening up new avenues for urban planning and community services.

At the forefront of transforming mobility, Renault Group is leveraging the strengths of its four major brands—Renault, Dacia, Alpine, and Mobilize—to deliver innovative, sustainable solutions worldwide. With a presence in 114 countries and sales totalling 2.264 million vehicles in 2024, the Group is committed to leading the charge towards a greener, more connected future.

Conclusion

Renault and WeRide's ongoing efforts to refine and expand autonomous public transport options underscore a significant shift towards sustainable urban mobility. With each successful experiment, the feasibility of widespread autonomous transport becomes increasingly tangible, marking a promising advancement in how we envision and implement public transportation solutions across Europe.