Autonomous taxis set for test runs in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is preparing to launch a pilot project for autonomous taxi services, the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development has announced, Kazinform reports.

The three-year initiative will be implemented in phases in cooperation with the Ministry of Transport, the Astana city administration, and ride-hailing companies inDrive and Yandex Qazaqstan. During the initial phase, autonomous driving technologies will be tested at a dedicated proving ground, alongside the development of routes and supporting infrastructure.

In subsequent stages, driverless taxis will be permitted to operate in Astana and Almaty along pre-approved routes under continuous monitoring. The preparation of road infrastructure—including lane markings, traffic signage, and designated passenger pick-up and drop-off areas—is scheduled for the first quarter of 2026.

Details regarding the vehicle models and service specifications have yet to be finalized. The project envisions achieving Level 4 autonomy, allowing fully automated operation without a driver present in the vehicle, while a transitional Level 3 mode—with a safety driver on board ready to assume control—will be used during earlier stages.

Fare structures will be determined by service operators in accordance with market conditions, operational costs, and applicable legislation.

Previously, Vice Minister Dmitriy Mun showcased an experimental trial of an autonomous vehicle in Astana, demonstrating its performance under winter conditions.

By Vafa Guliyeva