VW Outperforms Tesla With Robotic Taxi Production | Carscoops

      The production model of the autonomous ID. Buzz AD has been officially revealed.

      It incorporates Mobileye's self-driving technology along with 27 sensors to enhance safety.

      This autonomous van is positioned as a complete solution for urban areas and fleet operators.

      Volkswagen's mobility-centric MOIA brand has introduced the production version of the ID. Buzz AD, which has been in development for years and sets the stage for autonomous electric vans in both Europe and the U.S.

      This announcement follows closely after Elon Musk's statement that Tesla's Robotaxis will commence trial operations in Austin, Texas, on June 22. Is this a coincidence? Perhaps. However, the competition for leadership in autonomous mobility is intensifying. A significant distinction is that while Tesla's Robotaxi is geared towards passenger ride-hailing, VW's MOIA is primarily aimed at corporate clients and mobility services.

      VW's Level 4 vehicle has been “specifically optimized for use in mobility services” and boasts an extended wheelbase and a taller roof. In addition to these modifications, the van offers “intuitive boarding via smartphone,” indicating that riders unlock the vehicle using their devices.

      Inside, passengers will find a redesigned interior featuring 'wood' flooring, large grab handles, and four seats. There are also SOS, Support, and Start/Stop buttons. MOIA mentioned that the van is equipped with onboard AI to “ensure comfort and safety.”

      Notably, the vehicle includes a driver's seat and what appears to be a steering wheel that is covered in cloth camouflage, suggesting it may accommodate a safety driver, although this seat can apparently be moved aside when not in use.

      Additionally, the front passenger seat and center console have been removed, creating space for a storage compartment that can accommodate luggage and other belongings.

      The Autonomous Driving System

      The key aspect is the autonomous driving system. MOIA stated that the van includes a total of 27 sensors: 13 cameras, nine LiDARs, and five radars. This configuration provides the ID. Buzz AD with a “comprehensive, redundant 360-degree view of its surroundings.” The company noted that the van utilizes “Mobileye’s self-driving system, along with a proprietary Autonomous Driving Mobility as a Service (AD MaaS) Ecosystem Platform.”

      Although specific details were limited, MOIA mentioned that they offer public and private mobility providers a “turnkey package to launch autonomous services quickly, safely, and at scale.” This package is intended for various clients, including cities and fleet operators.

      Expectations for customers include a “fully connected 360-degree package consisting of leading technology, an attractive vehicle fleet, intelligent fleet management, and a customer-focused booking system – all from a single source.”

      Many questions remain unanswered, but Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume stated that the rollout is set to begin next year, contingent upon approval. “Beginning in 2026, we will deliver sustainable, autonomous mobility on a large scale in Europe and the U.S. — another significant milestone on our journey to becoming a global technology leader in the automotive sector,” he said.