BMW extends Level 2 assistance into urban traffic BMW plans to bring route-guided Level 2 assistance to German city traffic from 2027, supporting turns, lane changes and roundabouts. Drivers remain responsible, while compatible models can receive the new functions via over-the-air updates. Ronja Schmiedchen
Germany passes 209,000 public EV charge points Germany’s public EV charging network continues to expand, but access still varies sharply by region. New Federal Network Agency data shows where charge-point density is highest, how fast the network is growing and where significant rural gaps remain. Benjamin Müller
OTA updates raise new software approval questions A survey by German vehicle inspection and testing organisation Dekra and Ipsos shows growing driver interest in over-the-air updates. Owners value fewer workshop visits, but Dekra says software changes still need independent approval and inspection. Holger Holzer
Mercedes prepares point-to-point driving for Germany Mercedes wants to bring assisted urban driving to Germany after launches in China and the US. From late 2026, point-to-point navigation should help cars handle dense city traffic with the driver still responsible. Benjamin Müller
Hamburg and Free Now by Lyft launch robotaxi pilot Hamburg is taking a first step towards integrating autonomous taxis into its urban transport system. Together with Free Now by Lyft, northern Germany’s largest city is launching a pilot project designed to test Level-4 robotaxis under real-world conditions. Dr. Martin Large
How Germans really feel about autonomous driving Autonomous mobility is gaining acceptance in Germany. Many expect quieter streets, smoother traffic and greater safety and comfort. Despite concerns around technology, legislation and costs, most respondents show strong openness to self-driving systems. ADT editorial team
Moia brings autonomous shuttles to Berlin In the northwest of Berlin, a new chapter of urban mobility begins: for the first time, autonomous VW ID. Buzz AD from Moia are on public roads. The project aims to test how public transport can be expanded with flexible, self-driving options. Ronja Schmiedchen
What is the legal situation regarding autonomous driving? Autonomous driving is approaching: New laws, pilot projects, and technical advancements are changing the framework conditions. Find out which regulations apply in Germany, how EU requirements are implemented, and who is liable in the event of an accident. Timo Gilgen
Germany lags behind in bidirectional charging More and more cars are ready for bidirectional charging, vehicle-to-grid is slowly gaining momentum. But here, many factors act as a brake. Why does this need to change and will it? A look at neighbouring countries offers a jump start. Chris Löwer
Teleoperated Driving to be Permitted in Germany The Straßenverkehr-Fernlenk-Verordnung (Road Traffic Remote Control Regulation) creates for the first time a legal framework for the operation of remotely controlled motor vehicles on public roads in Germany. The federal government sees significant potential for increasing efficiency in this. Benjamin Müller
How serious is Friedrich Merz about Autonomous Driving? Autonomous Driving is set to soon commence regular operations in Germany - this is promised by the coalition agreement of CDU and SPD. But how? An analysis of the opportunities, legal hurdles, and the status quo. Timo Gilgen
Elecq Enters German Market The Chinese charging technology company Elecq is entering the German market this May. Founded in 2023, the company provides both AC wall-mounted chargers and DC fast-charging stations. Benjamin Müller
