Self-driving buses set for Malta’s roads in 2026 – If they can handle the mayhem

The anticipated pilot project for self-driving buses in Malta has been delayed once again, with Transport Minister Chris Bonett confirming that it will be implemented in 2026.

Dr Bonett, responding to a parliamentary question, said that the pilot project will involve collaboration between the Ministry for Transport, Infrastructure, and Public Works, the University of Malta, Malta Public Transport, and Transport Malta.

It will see self-driving vehicles tested on selected routes in both Malta and Gozo and will be implemented over a period of eight months in 2026.

The minister highlighted that the project is still in the preparatory stage, with ongoing discussions between stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation, as the team addresses several critical factors, including identifying the most suitable routes in Malta and Gozo for autonomous buses, evaluating the technical requirements of the vehicles, and analysing the legal framework.

The announcement marks yet another delay for a project that was first promised in 2021. At the time, then-Transport Minister Ian Borg assured that autonomous buses would soon be tested along four routes, with an expected start in early 2025.

This timeline was reiterated as recently as October 2023 by former Transport Minister Aaron Farrugia, who indicated that the project was part of a €28 million initiative involving 13 EU member states.

Malta Public Transport had been allocated €500,000 to purchase an autonomous bus and cover ancillary costs, while the Transport Ministry had earmarked €35,000 for its part in the pilot.

Dr Bonett’s recent update confirms that the project has been pushed back by yet another year.