EU's Invitation Extended for Nation to Join Trial Run of Self-Driving Cars
In the rapidly evolving landscape of autonomous vehicles, two European regions, Baden-Württemberg in Germany and Grand Est in France, are seeking cross-border cooperation to establish test fields for self-driving vehicles. This move is part of a broader European initiative to create a unified regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles, aiming to standardize regulations across member states and facilitate business operations.
The European Commissioner responsible for the test fields, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, is expected to present three test fields in the first quarter of 2026. The focus of investments in Baden-Württemberg is on concrete applications such as driverless shuttles in local transport.
The EU's unified regulatory framework, set to be unveiled in 2026, aims to reduce legal barriers and create a more cohesive environment for businesses. Work on test beds for autonomous vehicles is scheduled to begin around the same time, replicating real-world road conditions and supporting the development of safety frameworks, including AI liability.
The year 2025 marked a significant milestone for autonomous vehicles in Europe, with companies like Tesla and Waymo advancing their driverless programs. While the focus has been on mass transport with autonomous shuttles and buses, there is growing interest in driverless taxis and vans.
Baden-Württemberg, known for its automotive industry, is likely participating in broader German initiatives, such as those in Hamburg and rural areas. Grand Est, given its proximity to major European cities, might also be involved in cross-border autonomous vehicle projects.
Volkswagen, a major player in the automotive industry, aims to introduce its self-driving ID. Buzz AD in 2026, focusing on autonomous taxis. This development suggests that major auto manufacturers are actively pursuing autonomous solutions in Europe.
The EU recognizes the importance of being competitive with the US and China in autonomous vehicle technology. Efforts to establish a unified regulatory framework and support innovation are crucial for maintaining this competitiveness.
Baden-Württemberg's Transport Minister, Winfried Hermann, a member of the Greens party, considers the region one of the European pioneers in autonomous driving. He suggests that without cross-border cooperation, Baden-Württemberg may be left behind in the international competition with the USA and Asian players.
Since 2016, the ministry of Transport in Baden-Württemberg has invested approximately 25 million euros in research, test operations, or implementation. Vehicles with accompanying personnel are already on public roads in Baden-Württemberg, for example, in projects in Mannheim and Friedrichshafen.
Hermann aims to involve Baden-Württemberg in one of the three EU test fields for autonomous vehicles. The green-black state government of Baden-Württemberg also aims to promote regions that bundle their strengths and work together through cooperation across the German-French border.
Stuttgart, located in Baden-Württemberg, is likely to be a key player in these developments, given its automotive industry and strategic location. A Staatsanzeiger subscription is required to subscribe to topics and save articles on this subject.
The upcoming European unified regulatory framework in 2026, aimed at reducing legal barriers, is anticipated to foster a more conducive environment for businesses, such as those in the finance and technology sectors, in the autonomous vehicles industry. In anticipation of this, the management of Baden-Württemberg has focused its investments on creating concrete applications like driverless shuttles, which fall under the transportation industry, and is actively collaborating with neighboring regions, like Grand Est in France, to establish test fields for autonomous vehicles.
