Zagreb Steps Into Autonomous Transport With Launch of Driverless Taxi Service

A new phase in urban mobility is beginning in Zagreb, where Croatia-based company Verne has started operating a driverless taxi service. The initiative marks one of the first real-world introductions of this type of transport in Europe, moving beyond testing into everyday use, albeit on a limited scale.

The service has been developed in cooperation with international partners, combining local operations with established ride-hailing platforms and autonomous driving technology. After several years of preparation, the rollout signals a shift from controlled trials to practical deployment, with vehicles now carrying passengers in selected parts of the city.

For now, the operation remains gradual. The service is being introduced step by step, with clear geographic limits and continued supervision as the system adapts to real traffic conditions. This measured approach reflects a broader pattern across Europe, where new mobility solutions are being introduced cautiously, with an emphasis on safety and public acceptance.

The project is linked to Croatia’s growing reputation in advanced automotive and technology development, particularly through its connection to the Rimac Group. Public funding and European support programmes have also played a role in enabling the initiative, highlighting the strategic importance placed on innovation in transport.

Compared with developments in the United States and China, where autonomous vehicles are already operating at a larger scale, Europe has taken a slower path. Regulatory complexity and stricter safety requirements have delayed wider adoption, but they have also created a more controlled environment for testing new systems.

Zagreb’s experience suggests that smaller cities may become key starting points for this type of technology. By introducing services in a more manageable setting, companies can gather operational data and refine their systems before expanding into larger and more complex markets.

The longer-term outlook will depend on how quickly these services can grow beyond their initial footprint. Wider adoption will require not only technological reliability but also clear regulatory frameworks and viable business models. For now, the launch in Zagreb represents an early step in what is expected to be a gradual transformation of urban transport across Europe.