Driverless Taxis Could Hit Russian Streets by 2027

Russia is moving ahead with autonomous vehicle development, aiming to launch self-driving taxis within two years.

Self-driving taxis could be operating in Russian cities as early as 2027, according to Maksim Bolotskikh, a partner at the consulting firm Yakov & Partners. Speaking at the Digital Industry of Industrial Russia (CIPR) conference, he emphasized that the country is actively working to implement autonomous vehicles.

The Russian Ministry of Transport has already approved a 'roadmap' for developing self-driving technology, with full deployment targeted by 2028. Trials of autonomous freight trucks have already been successfully completed, marking significant progress.

Experts point to several factors working in Russia’s favor, including early-stage legal frameworks that allow for testing—and eventual operation—of robotaxis. From federal agencies to the presidential level, there is strong consensus on the importance of pursuing this technology.

In fact, companies in Russia have been piloting driverless taxis since 2023. Residents in regions like Tatarstan, Sochi, and Moscow have already caught glimpses of the experimental vehicles on their streets.