Beijing (Gasgoo)- On January 9, 2025, autonomous driving technology company WeRide announced the commencement of autonomous shuttle (Robobus) pilot operations at Zurich Airport in partnership with Flughafen Zürich AG. This marks Europe's first commercialized autonomous shuttle deployment at an airport.
The project, led by Zurich Airport and supported by Swiss Transit Lab (STL), selected WeRide as the technology provider due to its internationally recognized expertise in autonomous driving. According to Zurich Airport's official statement, WeRide's technology meets all legal, regulatory, and safety standards while adhering to strict data protection requirements. The Robobus, co-developed with Renault, underwent successful trials in Paris before arriving in Zurich.
Each WeRide Robobus can accommodate up to nine passengers, enhancing connectivity for airport staff by supplementing existing shuttle services. Operating on a designated route outside the airfield zone, the Robobuses will connect multiple stops, including employee entrances and maintenance areas, ensuring both safety and independence from flight operations.
Initially, the Robobus will have an onboard safety operator per car to monitor performance. Following this phase, the service will transition to fully driverless operations with remote monitoring. The Robobus service is set to officially launch in the first quarter of this year.
