Global transport sectors advance with electric and autonomous vehicle deployments

The transport and automotive sectors are seeing significant shifts toward electrification and automation. In Austria, ÖBB Postbus has launched a pilot operation using an Otokar e-CENTRO C autonomous electric bus. Operating at SAE Level 4, the vehicle is undergoing real-world testing in the Alpbach region to gather data for future automated public transport applications.

In Poland, Warsaw is modernizing its public transit fleet. Following the conclusion of an eight-year contract involving MAN hybrid buses, the city is introducing 54 Otokar Kent C Mild Hybrid buses. Operated by Mobilis, these 12-meter vehicles aim to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions across various urban and weekend routes.

Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus (VWCO) is also expanding its footprint. In South America, the company is entering the light utility vehicle segment in Brazil and Argentina, supported by a cooperation agreement with SAIC Motor. Additionally, VWCO has introduced the e-Volksbus 22H and 18H electric bus models, expanding its electric portfolio for urban and shuttle services, following the success of its e-Delivery truck line.