Rimac is shifting from electric supercars to robotaxis
Rimac pivots from electric supercars to Verne, a sleek two-seater robotaxi, launching in Zagreb by 2026.
Rimac is making a significant shift from its renowned electric supercars to a new venture in robotaxis. The company, known for its record-breaking Nevera hypercar, has named the new service Verne, in honor of author Jules Verne, and it will be launched in Zagreb by 2026. This marks Rimac's entry into the autonomous vehicle industry, a project it began developing in 2017, supported by substantial funding from the EU, Hyundai, and Kia.
The Verne robotaxi is designed to stand apart from other self-driving cars with its sleek, hatchback appearance and luxurious two-seater interior. Without traditional vehicle controls, the design focuses on passenger comfort, featuring a 43-inch widescreen display and Dolby Atmos sound system. The vehicle operates at Level 4 autonomy, utilizing Mobileye's technology for self-driving capabilities, emphasizing safety and an enhanced user experience through an app similar to Uber or Waymo.
Verne aims to roll out services beyond Zagreb, with plans to expand into other European cities and the Middle East. The company envisions its service as a complement to public transport, reducing the need for additional cars in households. Verne will operate through centrally located depots known as 'Motherships' for vehicle maintenance, cleaning, and charging. The goal is not only to innovate in autonomous transport but also to make it accessible and affordable for a broader audience.