Residents of Herford, Germany can now be part of history as it relates to the future of autonomous mobility. Starting Tuesday, September 10, autonomous minibuses began carrying passengers as part of the Ultimo Project, coordinated by Deutsche Bahn (DB). The launch in Herford aims to show how driverless vehicles could make local public transport more attractive and accessible.
A New Connection Across the City
The pilot service creates a new link between Herford’s train station and the western part of the city, servicing stops in between. Advanced sensors, including LiDARs, cameras and radar enable the vehicles to operate without a manual driver, though safety drivers remain on board, ensuring oversight and intervention if required. The minibuses complement Herford’s existing network, which is operated by DB subsidiary Busverkehr Ostwestfalen GmbH (BVO). Running these buses in regular service allows researchers to test different service models, combining fixed timetables with on-demand booking options.
How the Service Works
Two electric minibuses will alternate in serving the route. Each bus has nine seats plus a wheelchair space, and travels at speeds of up to 45 km/h. Services will operate Tuesdays to Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Fridays until 1 p.m., with departures every 30 minutes. The rides are free, but unlike conventional buses, passengers must register online in advance to ride. Once registered, they can use an app to book a seat at their chosen stop. Riders aged 12 and over are welcome, and participants will be asked to complete surveys to provide feedback.
European Collaboration
Herford’s trial is part of ULTIMO, which brings together 23 partners from seven European countries. The project is intended to set standards for integrating autonomous vehicles from different manufacturers into public transport networks. Trial operations began in Oslo in February 2024, with Geneva scheduled to follow in early 2026. Herford’s test run will continue until September 2026, giving researchers and passengers time to assess how autonomous services can improve transport in a medium-sized city.
Technology and Partnerships
The minibuses are built by Austrian manufacturer eVersum and fitted with autonomous driving technology from ZF. The vehicles are fully electric, making the service not only innovative but also environmentally sustainable.
For DB, the project represents an opportunity to test new approaches to urban mobility. By offering additional connections, especially between the train station and surrounding districts, the shuttles may help strengthen public transport as a whole.
Looking Ahead
ULTIMO is funded with €24 million from the European Union and runs until September 2026. As a flagship EU initiative before autonomous driving enters regular production, it is expected to play a decisive role in shaping how this technology is introduced across Europe.
For residents of the medium-sized town of Herford, the project offers a first-hand chance to experience what the future of transport could look like. By stepping aboard, passengers are not only getting a free ride but also contributing to research that may redefine how European cities move.
You can read the full press (Auf Deutsch) from DB here: Autonomous driving: ULTIMO shuttles start test operation with passengers in Herford
If you are in Herford, you can register for test rides here: https://www.dbregio.de/innovationen/autonomes-fahren/ultimo/ultimo-herford#
You can see video of the demonstration by clicking the link below