The Israeli startup Autobrains announced that the first autonomous rides in Munich, potentially in collaboration with Uber, could begin as early as next year, although these initial journeys would include a safety driver. Igal Raichelgauz, founder and CEO of the company, stated in the Handelsblatt that Autobrains is partnering with Nvidia and Uber to bring the first robotaxis to the Bavarian capital. The company aims for the full transition to Level 4 autonomy-where the vehicle operates without a safety driver-by early summer 2027.
Technology testing in Munich started in early June, initially utilizing a Ford Mustang Mach-E, which conducted rounds around the Olympic Park. Raichelgauz shared with the Handelsblatt that the results from these tests were “honestly. a positive surprise.”
Given the successful outcome of the initial trials, Autobrains introduced a second vehicle model in August: the Vietnamese VinFast VF6, with a third vehicle expected soon after. The Munich program is planned to involve at least three different automobile manufacturers. After implementation in Munich, the service will be extended to other cities, including those within Germany. Autobrains’ wider goal is to penetrate 20 cities across Southeast Asia and Europe by 2028.
