Renault to Launch Commercial Robot Shuttle in 2030

Renault has been making significant strides in the realm of autonomous vehicles, with driverless shuttles now operational in various cities across Europe. Utilizing technology from Chinese operator WeRide, these shuttles are currently in operation in Barcelona, Spain, Valence, France, and Zurich, Switzerland. The company has hinted at the imminent announcement of several more locations for these autonomous shuttles.

Looking ahead to the future, Renault has ambitious plans to introduce an electric miniBus platform by 2030. This platform will have the capability to integrate automation systems from specialized partners, further enhancing the autonomous driving experience.

Recently, Barcelona witnessed the testing of two autonomous electric miniBuses on a 2.2-kilometre open road loop in the heart of the city streets. This trial serves as a testament to the maturity of new technologies in the realm of automated public transport services, particularly in dense and complex urban environments.

Renault envisions autonomous mobility as a key driver in creating more liveable cities, improving transport accessibility, and enhancing overall efficiency and sustainability in mobility solutions.

As part of the broader automotive landscape in Europe, Renault has allocated €1 billion towards driverless cars within the €50 billion automotive plan. Additionally, the company has showcased a single-seater EV demonstrator video and an autonomous shuttle in Paris, highlighting its commitment to innovation in the autonomous vehicle sector.

Following successful trials this month, Renault is gearing up to launch a commercial service of level 4 automated shuttles in Valence, France, starting from July. Collaborating with French private public transport operator beti, insurer Macif, and WeRide, Renault Group is spearheading the deployment of the first automated mobility network connecting a TGV railway station to a local 162-hectare business park.

Meanwhile, a trial conducted by WeRide at Zurich Airport since January 2025 aims to streamline employee travel between terminals using autonomous technologies. This initiative underscores the capability of autonomous systems to operate effectively in complex environments, meeting stringent safety and reliability standards typical of airport settings.

When it comes to individual vehicles, Renault Group is currently focusing on market-leading Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as L2 and L2+ systems, featuring Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Systems. However, the company is eyeing the potential to introduce more sophisticated autonomous systems in the future, aligning with the advancements made by competitors like BMW and Mercedes who are already offering Level 3 vehicles in the US and Europe.

Renault Group remains agile in its approach, closely monitoring developments in cost and regulations to ensure it can provide solutions with higher levels of autonomy for individual vehicles when the market conditions are favorable. On the public transportation front, the company is gearing up to offer L4 autonomous vehicles in the short term, capable of independently managing driving situations with remote supervision. Renault anticipates a growing demand for several thousand autonomous electric miniBuses in the coming decade, underlining its commitment to shaping the future of mobility.