Germany's largest taxi operator, Münchner-Taxi-Zentrum (MTZ), signed a letter of intent on Tuesday with US autonomous driving company Tensor Auto to deploy robotaxis in Germany.
The move reflects how taxi operators are seeking to play a greater role in Europe's emerging autonomous mobility market.
The two sides said MTZ will operate up to 500 autonomous vehicles under its own brand across various German cities, while Tensor Auto will provide autonomous driving technology through a subscription model.
California-based Tensor's proposed model aims to let taxi operators retain control over fleet operations, customer relationships, and operational data, rather than having the technology provider run the service.
These autonomous vehicles will be integrated into MTZ's existing dispatch platform, allowing passengers to hail rides through existing taxi service channels.
The two companies said they plan to promote this model across Europe, with a target of deploying an additional 10,000 vehicles through taxi and fleet operators within 24 months after the relevant vehicle models become available in the region.
MTZ and Tensor will also explore offering these autonomous vehicles to private buyers in Germany.
The two sides did not disclose the financial terms of the deal, and the agreement's effectiveness is contingent on Germany approving L4 autonomous driving technology.
Comments