Germany’s First Full-Size SAE Level-4 Automated Bus on Public Roads
The Karsan Autonomous e-ATAK, automated by ADASTEC, is operating in Hannover’s Burgdorf district as part of Project albus, marking Germany’s first deployment of a full-size SAE Level-4 automated bus in public traffic. This milestone also includes ADASTEC’s first testing approval from the German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) for its SAE Level-4 automated driving software platform, confirming compliance with the country’s strict safety and operational standards for public road use.
The deployment operates on Line 906, covering a 7-kilometer (4.35-mile) route with 13 bus stops, 10 traffic lights, and multiple complex maneuvers including roundabouts, side and parallel parking, and pedestrian crosswalks. Operating at a regulated speed of 40 km/h (25 mph) in mixed urban traffic, the service is fully integrated into Hannover’s public transportation network, ensuring smooth coordination with existing timetables and services.
The Karsan Autonomous e-ATAK automated by ADASTEC’s flowride.ai, the SAE Level-4 automated driving software platform and a comprehensive sensor suite. This integration enables precise navigation, accurate docking at stations, and real-time interaction with signal systems and other road users. The software continuously processes infrastructure and environmental data, ensuring safe, consistent performance in varying weather and traffic conditions.
Timetable for Passenger Service
The Karsan Autonomous e-ATAK, automated by ADASTEC, operates on a scheduled basis during the pilot phase in Hannover. Passenger service is available on selected weekdays, providing fixed departure times to ensure reliable and consistent operations.
Weekly Timetable (September 2025):
- Monday, September 15: 13:50, 14:50, 15:50
- Tuesday, September 16: No service
- Wednesday, September 17: 09:50, 10:50, 11:50, 13:50, 14:50, 15:50
- Thursday, September 18: No service
- Friday, September 19: 09:50, 10:50, 11:50, 13:50, 14:50, 15:50
- Saturday, September 20: No service
Project albus is operated by ÜSTRA in partnership with regiobus, with Technische Universität Braunschweig monitoring and analyzing performance data to support research in automated mobility. The project is supported by Region Hannover, SLB (Steuern Lenken Bauen), and funded by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) based on a decision of the German Bundestag.
In its initial phase, the service is available to a registered user group, enabling the collection of real-time feedback on accessibility, ride comfort, and passenger experience. A second phase will see the bus operate in parallel with existing services on Route 906, with onboard signage indicating the trial nature of the operation. This phased approach ensures that operational insights can be applied before wider service rollout.
As Germany’s first full-size automated bus operating on public roads, the Hannover deployment marks a national milestone, led by the Karsan Autonomous e-ATAK, automated by ADASTEC.