Rimac, Croatia’s renowned supercar manufacturer, is launching a new robotaxi service named Verne in Zagreb by 2026. This initiative marks a significant shift for Rimac, originally founded by Mate Rimac as a one-man operation in a garage, now renowned for producing electric supercars like the record-breaking Nevera.
In 2021, Rimac surprised the industry by acquiring Bugatti from Volkswagen and has since been heavily invested in autonomous technology development, receiving substantial funding from the EU and partnerships with Hyundai and Kia.
Verne, named after Jules Verne, the famed author known for his adventurous tales, symbolizes Rimac’s vision of merging advanced technology with the spirit of exploration. The robotaxi itself is a sleek, fully electric vehicle equipped with Mobileye’s Level 4 autonomous driving technology, omitting traditional controls for a streamlined, spacious interior.
Verne (Rimac Automobili)
Designed as a two-seater with luxurious amenities, Verne aims to provide a comfortable and affordable ride-sharing experience accessible to all, not just the wealthy.
The robotaxi service will operate similarly to popular ride-hailing apps, offering customers the ability to customize their ride experience via a mobile app, adjusting settings like temperature and ambiance before pickup.
Verne plans to establish centralized vehicle depots, or “Motherships,” in cities it serves to manage and maintain its fleet efficiently. After Zagreb, Verne plans to expand across Europe and later into the Middle East, positioning itself as a major player in the emerging global robotaxi market.
By focusing on urban mobility and sustainability, Verne aims to complement existing public transportation systems rather than compete with them, potentially reducing the need for personal vehicle ownership in urban households.
With agreements already in place with multiple cities and negotiations ongoing worldwide, Verne is poised to pioneer autonomous ride-sharing outside of established markets like the US and China, reshaping urban transportation in the process.
