Autonomous electric minibus Holon to be trials in Hamburg; human passengers expected from 2026 onwards.
Hamburg, Germany, is set to take a significant stride in the realm of public transportation with the arrival of two autonomous minibuses as part of the ALIKE project. The Holon Urban, developed by Holon (a Benteler subsidiary), and the ID. Buzz AD from Volkswagen's Moia division, are Level 4 autonomous electric shuttles designed for highly automated, on-demand ridepooling services within urban areas [1][2][3][4].
The ALIKE project, a collaborative effort between Volkswagen, Moia, and Mobileye, aims to gain insights into the operation and acceptance of autonomous driving services in real urban contexts [1]. The project serves as a blueprint for implementing the mobility transition in German cities, with Hamburg leading the way in Europe for autonomous driving [5].
The Holon Urban is a 5-meter, barrier-free minibus seating 15 passengers, capable of speeds up to 60 km/h. On the other hand, the ID. Buzz AD is an autonomous electric shuttle from Volkswagen’s Moia division. Both vehicles use Mobileye’s self-driving system, combining cameras, radar, and lidar sensors for 360-degree environment perception, processed by high-performance computers [1][2][3][5]. They operate at SAE Level 4 autonomy, meaning highly automated driving in limited operational domains with safety personnel initially onboard.
Unlike robotaxi models, the ALIKE project focuses on ridepooling, whereby multiple passengers with similar routes share rides, optimizing demand pooling and reducing cost and vehicle numbers. This positions the service between traditional buses and taxis, enhancing flexibility while lowering operational expenses [2].
Testing for the autonomous minibuses began in late summer 2025 in Hamburg, with routes between areas such as Stadtpark and Elbe or Schlump and Wandsbek. A dedicated depot called the AD Hub opened in Barmbek to manage operations. Initial test rides will be followed by closed-group passenger trials from 2026, with a select group of users having the opportunity to use the Holon urban in the following year [1][2][3][4].
Robert Henrich, CEO of Hamburg's public transport company Hochbahn, stated that the arrival of the autonomous Holon Shuttle marks a new phase for Hochbahn in public transport. Anjes Tjarks, Senator for Transport and Mobility Transition in Hamburg, commented that Hamburg is leading the way in Europe for autonomous driving [6]. Tjarks added that the goal is to work closely with the federal government, partners, and the industry to introduce vehicles that can drive completely autonomously for the first time in the EU.
Upon receiving the targeted testing permit for autonomous driving, there will be a gradual handover of driving tasks from the driver to the self-driving system. The ALIKE project explicitly aims to study user acceptance of autonomous ridesharing/shuttle services, understanding passenger behaviors, safety perceptions, and operational reliability [1].
The Alike project is funded by the Federal Ministry of Transport with 26 million euros. Passengers can apply for a ride next year to experience the future of public transport firsthand [7]. Until the new center opens, the Holon urban vehicle is stationed at the Hochbahn operations center in Hummelsbüttel.
In summary, Hamburg’s testing of the Holon Urban and ID. Buzz AD shuttles represents a significant step toward integrating Level 4 autonomous ridepooling in public transport, evaluating both technological performance and societal acceptance in real-world environments ahead of wider deployment from 2026 onward. The project serves as a blueprint for implementing the mobility transition in German cities.
Read also:
- Li Auto faces scrutiny after crash test involving i8 model and a truck manufacturer sparks controversy
- Construction and renovation projects in Cham county granted €24.8 million focus on energy efficiency
- Threat looms over an ancient rock art site in Australia as the government prolongs the existence of a giant gas facility nearby
- Weekly proceedings in the Federal Diet (Bundestag)
