Autonomous Systems introduces Smartbus: because autonomous driving starts in the depot

Autonomous driving starts in the depot, according to Autonomous Systems, which has developed an urban bus capable of moving autonomously within depot areas. Its name says it all: Smartbus. Thanks to SmartDEPOT™ technology, the vehicle can move freely, drive itself to the washing station, park, and recharge — all without a driver behind the wheel or even on board.

«The future of mobility doesn’t start with a driverless bus on a city street. It starts in the depot, where autonomy can deliver real value today», says Jaroslaw Czaja, CEO of Autonomous Systems, a Polish company based in Gliwice.

According to the company, the benefits are tangible: more driver time spent serving passengers rather than performing maneuvers in depots; faster vehicle readiness for daily operations; greater safety and improved working conditions for both depot staff and drivers. In other words, autonomous technology is not about replacing staff — it’s about supporting them.

By eliminating repetitive end-of-shift maneuvers, Smartbuses can reduce the risk of minor collisions and lower driver stress and fatigue levels.

The project has already won over MZA Warsaw, the largest public transport operator in Poland, which was the first to publicly test a Smartbus in Warsaw in June 2025. Their evaluation shows that depot-based autonomy saves 35 minutes per bus per day, which translates into about €88,000 in labour cost savings per vehicle over a 12-year lifecycle.

Also in Poznan, the operator MPK Poznan is currently assessing the operational use of a smart depot system. Beyond Poland, TMB Barcelona has also taken interest in the potential of Smartbuses.

This technology will be showcased at Busworld Europe 2025 in Brussels, where Autonomous Systems will present its solution to the public.