Burgdorf starts test operations: Germany's first autonomous public bus!

Burgdorf starts test operations: Germany's first autonomous public bus!

Things are about to get exciting in Burgdorf, a charming town in the Hanover region: On Friday, the first autonomous public bus called “albus” was presented. This innovative project, launched by Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU), marks the first attempt in Germany to integrate a fully automated electric bus into regular public transport (ÖPNV). NDR reported on the symbolic first trip, in which other officials such as the regional president Steffen Krach (SPD) also took part.

The test operation, which is scheduled to start on September 15, 2025, is seen as real market research for the nerve-racking technology. Interested adults must register to be able to ride and will receive a personalized QR code as a ticket for a free ride. The project, which is supported by the Federal Ministry of Transport with around 3.7 million euros, has a total cost of around 6.3 million euros.

The autonomous bus “albus”

The electric bus is 8 meters long, offers space for 22 passengers and can reach a range of up to 300 kilometers. Under certain conditions, the bus can drive independently and reach speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour. The planned test operation extends over a distance of around 6 kilometers with a total of 11 stops that take various traffic situations into account. The starting point is at the central bus station (ZOB) in Burgdorf, and an extension to Burgdorfer Südstadt is being considered Üstra supplemented.

What can passengers expect during the test operation? Initially, there will be both a driver and trained security staff on board to ensure the safety of passengers. After the test drives, participants are asked to take part in an online survey to evaluate the vehicle and driving behavior. This information will serve to further develop the project - an approach that underlines the importance of the project as a learning process, as Denise Hain, CEO of ÜSTRA, emphasizes.

Outlook on the mobility of the future

The project is in the context of a broader discussion about local public transport in Germany. The Association of German Transport Companies shows that the integration of autonomous transport could increase the quality of life in cities in the long term. These new technologies aim to achieve a structural change towards public transport that is not only more efficient but also more environmentally friendly.

In times when innovative mobility systems are required, the “albus” could not only serve as a test balloon for autonomous buses in Germany, but also as a model for what the future of public transport could look like. Especially when the technology is mature and acceptance among the population continues to grow. It remains to be seen whether the test operation will be a success story, but the signs are good.