Rimac surpasses Tesla: unveiling the autonomous taxi Verne
Tesla was supposed to unveil an autonomous taxi in August 2024, but it is Rimac, a less known Croatian manufacturer, that has just presented Verne. This fully electric and autonomous car is expected on our roads in 2026, accompanied by an innovative ecosystem. Here are the details.
Rimac, a visionary company
Mate Rimac, the founder of the company, is already famous for the Nevera, one of the most powerful electric cars. Rimac has also established prestigious collaborations, becoming a co-owner of Bugatti and supplier of batteries for future BMW electric vehicles. Today, the Croatian firm aspires to revolutionize the autonomous taxi sector with Verne, a nod to the author Jules Verne.
A fully autonomous electric car
The core of the Verne service is based on a new vehicle using the Mobileye Drive platform. This technology allows for level 4 autonomous driving, where passengers never have to intervene. Visually, the vehicle stands out for its modern design, integrating LiDAR and cameras, and doing away with traditional windshield wipers and mirrors.
Its interior, accessible via large sliding doors, offers only two seats. This configuration addresses a reality: 90% of taxi rides carry only one or two passengers, according to Adriano Mudri, the designer of Verne. The absence of a steering wheel, pedals, and driving controls also allows for a very generous interior space.
Passenger comfort is optimized thanks to this space, a 43-inch screen under the windshield, a 17-speaker audio system, a glass roof, and customization options. However, no information has been provided on the performance or range of the vehicle.
A complete ecosystem and arrival in 2026
The Verne system doesn’t stop at the car. It includes an application to order and customize the taxi, as well as a maintenance and charging service in centers called “Motherships,” built in each city where Verne will be available. The first city to host this service will be Zagreb, Rimac’s hometown, in 2026. Subsequently, Rimac has already signed agreements with 11 cities in Germany, the UK, and the Middle East. Thirty other cities are currently in discussion worldwide.
Verne could thus become the first robotaxi service in Europe, ahead of Waymo taxis from the United States. By 2026, many constraints will need to be overcome, such as the relaxation of European regulations on autonomous driving and the development of this unprecedented ecosystem. Meanwhile, Tesla’s strategy in this area will be closely followed, with a presentation scheduled for August 8, 2024.
