Autonomous VW ID. Buzz Shuttles Hit Berlin Streets
Five Level 4 autonomous vehicles will serve 80 stops across a 15 km² test area in Spandau, Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, and Reinickendorf. © MOIA
Berlin's public transport operator BVG has officially launched autonomous shuttle operations in the city's northwest, marking a significant step toward integrating self-driving vehicles into the capital's public transport network.
According to MOIA's press release, the first VW ID. Buzz AD vehicles equipped with Level 4 autonomous technology are now operating on public roads. The shuttles feature software systems and services developed by MOIA, a Volkswagen subsidiary, based in Berlin.
Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder joined project partners for the official launch event on October 17, 2025. "Autonomous driving is the key to future mobility. It stands above all for more efficiency and participation in road traffic," Schnieder stated.
The NoWeL4 (Nord-Westraum Level 4) project will deploy five autonomous vehicles across a 15-square-kilometer test area covering parts of Spandau, Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, and Reinickendorf. The shuttles will serve approximately 80 stops throughout the designated zone.
Currently, the vehicles operate with safety drivers on board who can intervene if necessary, while a control center provides remote monitoring. Passenger test rides are scheduled to begin in the first half of 2026.
BVG CEO Henrik Falk emphasized the transformative potential: "Today begins a new era. Regardless of life situation: with autonomous vehicles, we can create a completely new mobility system that truly addresses the personal needs of people in our city."
The federal government is supporting the project with €9.5 million in funding. The pilot program runs until 2027, with plans to transition into regular operations afterward. Additional project partners include the Technical University of Berlin and the Institute for Climate Protection, Energy and Mobility.