Stavanger Expanding Urban Mobility with Automated Bus Service
The Karsan Autonomous e-ATAK, automated by ADASTEC, is at the core of a groundbreaking public transportation deployment in Stavanger, Norway. This project marks a significant milestone as the first and only automated bus operation in mixed traffic on public roads across Europe. It demonstrates the maturity of ADASTEC’s technology and establishes a benchmark for safe, reliable, and scalable automated transit in real-world urban conditions.
After an initial phase on Line 18, the operation transitioned to Line 19, where the automated service officially began carrying passengers on December 12, 2023. This route was selected for its operational complexity and diversity, providing an ideal setting for the Karsan Autonomous e-ATAK to consistently deliver safe and efficient service in live urban traffic. The transition to Line 19 built upon the success of the earlier phase, applying valuable operational insights gained from thousands of passenger trips.
Line 19 covers a 2.2-kilometer (1.36-mile) stretch and features intersections, pedestrian crossings, traffic lights, lane changes, and an 800-meter tunnel, all managed at a regulated speed of 40 km/h (25 mph). These elements form part of the daily operating environment for the Karsan Autonomous e-ATAK and offer an authentic demonstration of its capabilities in busy city conditions.
The service is fully integrated into the city’s public transit network, carrying ticketed passengers and operating throughout the day. Passengers experience smooth acceleration, precise navigation, and consistent journey times, even during peak hours or adverse weather conditions. The Karsan Autonomous e-ATAK maintains reliable performance throughout the year, ensuring the Stavanger community benefits from dependable mobility regardless of seasonal changes.
Designed with accessibility in mind, the Karsan Autonomous e-ATAK , automated by ADASTEC enhances public transportation by offering an inclusive mobility option for all, including those in underserved areas. Its spacious, step-free design, wheelchair accessibility, and real-time information systems improve the passenger experience for a wide range of users.
The deployment is the result of collaboration between ADASTEC, Karsan, Vy, Kolumbus, Applied Autonomy, the Norwegian Public Road Administration, and TÜV NORD. Full regulatory approval confirms compliance with national legislation and enables continuous operation on public roads.
This project reflects ADASTEC’s global mission to transform public transportation through automation and demonstrates how the Karsan Autonomous e-ATAK delivers real-world value for cities and communities, paving the way for future deployments in more complex urban settings.