Summary
– Waymo and Tesla are at the forefront of the robotaxi business in America
– Rimac has unveiled its own robotaxi concept called Verne in Croatia
– Verne is an electric autonomous vehicle with a focus on providing the best mobility experience
– The vehicle features advanced technology for autonomous driving and is designed for city use
– Verne plans to launch in 2026 in Zagreb before expanding to other European cities and eventually the Middle East
Article
Robotaxis are a hot topic in the news lately, with discussions about the challenges of regulation, vehicle costs, and the density of driverless cars needed for efficient service. Waymo recently opened its robotaxi service in San Francisco to the general public, following a successful launch in Phoenix. This has sparked anticipation for Tesla’s upcoming announcement on its robotaxi plans. Meanwhile, in Croatia, Rimac unveiled its own robotaxi concept called Verne, named after Jules Verne. The service focuses on providing a holistic and integrated mobility experience using an electric autonomous vehicle, a dedicated app, and specialized infrastructure.
Unlike other robotaxi services that use minibus-like vehicles, Rimac’s Verne features a compact three-door design suitable for one or two passengers. The vehicle is powered by an autonomous driving platform developed by Rimac and utilizes technology from Mobileye for navigation and safety. With a 60 kWh battery providing a range of 240 kilometers, the Verne aims to be cost-effective for operating as a robotaxi in cities. The company plans to introduce a central hub called a “mothership” for battery charging and vehicle maintenance, ensuring a seamless experience for customers.
Verne’s infrastructure also includes a Mobility Service Platform accessible through an app, allowing customers to customize their ride preferences such as comfort settings, interior ambiance, and temperature. Rimac envisions launching the Verne robotaxi service in 2026, starting in Zagreb and expanding to the UK, Germany, and other European cities. The company plans to build the Verne vehicle in a new plant in Zagreb and aims to offer a tailored and luxurious experience for customers. With a focus on innovative design and user experience, Rimac’s Verne could potentially make a significant impact in the robotaxi industry.
Mate Rimac, the co-founder of Rimac, has a track record of successfully completing ambitious projects, giving credibility to the potential success of the Verne robotaxi service. The unique design of the Verne vehicle sets it apart from other robotaxis, integrating autonomous driving technology seamlessly into its bodywork. While many companies have faced challenges in the robotaxi market, Rimac’s innovative approach and commitment to delivering a high-quality mobility experience could position the Verne as a leading player in the industry in the coming years. With the launch of Verne on the horizon, the future of autonomous mobility and robotaxis looks promising.
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