'Unique self-driving': Israel's Autobrains launches robotaxi pilot in Munich with Uber and Nvidia

Israeli AI firm Autobrains is set to launch Europe's first autonomous commercial ride-hailing network in Munich, a significant step forward in self-driving technology. The pilot program, a collaboration with ride-sharing giant Uber and tech powerhouse Nvidia, awaits regulatory approval but promises to reshape urban mobility.

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We created a unique system for autonomous driving through agentic artificial intelligence, which breaks down the reasoning into small tasks and makes it easier to process.

Autobrains founder and CEO Igal Raichelgauz explained that their system employs a "unique system for autonomous driving through agentic artificial intelligence." This approach breaks down complex driving decisions into smaller, more manageable tasks, enhancing processing efficiency. The technology also integrates defense sector developments, utilizing satellite imagery, cameras, and drone connectivity to bolster its self-driving performance.

The partnership combines three crucial elements for scalable robotaxi deployment: Autobrains' autonomous driving software, Uber's established ride-hailing platform, and Nvidia's advanced hardware. Raichelgauz stated the company's immediate goal is to gather sufficient test drive data to demonstrate safety statistics significantly exceeding those of human drivers. These initial drives will be conducted under human supervision.

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The first experience when you drive in robotics is really kind of, you know, surprising. There is someone in the driving seat, but he is not driving. And the car speaks to you, using local mannerisms and slang that was also programmed into the AI system.

Addressing potential public apprehension, particularly among older generations, Raichelgauz highlighted the system's design to verbally explain its actions to passengers, aiming to build confidence. "The first experience when you drive in robotics is really kind of, you know, surprising. There is someone in the driving seat, but he is not driving. And the car speaks to you, using local mannerisms and slang that was also programmed into the AI system," he said. Autobrains also anticipates that, once fully operational without a human driver, the service will become more affordable than traditional ride-hailing.

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We also believe that, when we manage to launch the product without the need of a physical person in the driver's seat, then people will start trusting the service just because it's cheaper than the one that uses actual drivers.

While the immediate focus is on the European market, Autobrains is exploring the possibility of implementing its technology in Israel. Raichelgauz expressed hope that Israel could become the first nation with a nationwide autonomous taxi system, though this remains in the early stages. The company notes that key legislative milestones in Israel, including the legalization of ride-sharing apps and self-driving cars, pave the way for such advancements.

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We hope to be able to apply our technology in Israel, maybe even transform Israel into the first nation to have the system working nation-wide.