Karsan, a company that places technology at the heart of next-generation public transportation, brought its autonomous and intelligent mobility vision to the global technology ecosystem at CES 2026. Autonomous experiences, proven through real-world field operations, were evaluated using Karsan AI and its Autonomous Intelligence vision. Within this framework, the focus wasn't solely on zero-emission vehicle production; autonomous and intelligent solutions integrated into urban life were highlighted.
According to CEO Okan Baş, Karsan AI was designed within the framework of an end-to-end autonomous mobility ecosystem. This model, encompassing all processes from the production line to operation in open traffic, is based on a compatible and reliable infrastructure with technology partners such as ADASTEC. By adopting this approach, cities are obtaining not just a vehicle, but a comprehensive autonomous transportation solution.
The standout performer of CES 2026 The Autonomous e-ATAK, a model with Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, took center stage. Serving real passengers and under real traffic conditions in Europe and the USA, this vehicle was highlighted for successfully implementing seven different European autonomous projects between 2021 and 2024. It transported passengers in open traffic in Michigan and, in Stavanger, Norway, it became the world's first autonomous bus to operate in challenging weather conditions, navigating tunnels with ticketed passengers. This vehicle is still actively in service.
With interest in autonomous public transportation accelerating by 2025, nine new autonomous projects have been registered in Europe, five of which are actively being implemented. In Rotterdam, Europe's first autonomous airport shuttle service was launched, while in Switzerland and Sweden, the first autonomous buses carrying passengers on public roads were put into service by Karsan. The first autonomous bus to conduct test drives on public roads in Hanover is also operating under the Karsan brand. It is projected that Karsan will reach a total of 16 autonomous projects in 12 countries in the short term.
Autonomous e-JEST stands out as another significant step in Karsan's AI journey. Four years of field experience gained with Autonomous e-ATAK has been combined with the e-JEST platform, which has become a global benchmark in urban public transportation for seven years. Focusing on the North American market, Autonomous e-JEST is positioned for micro-transit and on-demand flexible mobility solutions. The first order of 10 units from North America demonstrates that this approach has found acceptance in the market.
According to data obtained so far, Karsan confirms the reality of scalable autonomous public transportation in the field with over 160 kilometers of autonomous driving experience, more than 60 passenger transport, and a 99,5% success rate. The experience with electric and autonomous public transportation in Europe has been transferred to the North American market after completing FMVSS and Altoona tests. Currently, active operations are being carried out in North America with approximately 200 electric vehicles.
CES 2026 was more than just a trade show for Karsan; it stood out as a strategic technology move in its global brand journey. The Karsan AI approach showcased clearly demonstrated that autonomous public transportation is no longer a future prospect, but a crucial reality of today. With its smart, autonomous, and practical mobility solutions, Karsan continues to play an active role globally in the transformation of urban transportation.
