Zurich Airport Tests Fully Autonomous Electric Shuttles with WeRide

Zurich Airport has commenced testing of fully autonomous, L4-level electric shuttle buses in collaboration with Chinese self-driving technology firm WeRide. The two shuttle buses are initially designated for transporting airport staff along fixed routes, avoiding aircraft taxiways and runways.

The project is part of a broader airport initiative aimed at reducing carbon emissions from daily operations through electrification. The vehicles operate without an onboard safety driver but are monitored remotely, with the capability for remote takeover if necessary, meeting the objectives for L4 autonomous driving as defined by the airport.

This deployment makes Zurich Airport one of the first in Europe to test L4 autonomous driving technology in a real operational environment. The vehicles have undergone testing to ensure compliance with EU regulations and safety requirements for L4 autonomy.

During the initial phase, the shuttle buses will not carry passengers. Following approximately four weeks of testing, airport employees are expected to begin using the service. Personnel from partner companies Swissport and Krummen Kerzers will also participate in the testing, overseeing remote operation monitoring.