Revolutionizing Urban Mobility: The Verne Autonomous Electric Taxi

A Vision for the Future

The Verne service is structured around three core components: a fully autonomous electric vehicle, a bespoke app, and dedicated infrastructure. Set to debut in Zagreb in 2026, this service aims to deliver unparalleled convenience and efficiency.

The Autonomous Vehicle

At the heart of the Verne ecosystem is a completely reimagined autonomous electric vehicle, built from the ground up to prioritize safety and comfort. Utilizing the Mobileye Drive autonomous platform, the vehicle is designed exclusively for autonomous operation, free from the constraints of traditional human-driven cars. This new design ethos eliminates the compromises of legacy platforms, resulting in a vehicle that is not only safer but also more comfortable.

Mobility Service Platform

Verne's mobility service platform is a revolutionary take on the ride-hailing app. It allows customers to personalize the vehicle's settings before ordering a ride, ensuring that each journey feels uniquely tailored to the individual's preferences. From lighting and temperature to the scent inside the vehicle, every aspect can be customized. This platform leverages the full potential of an autonomous connected fleet to ensure smooth and efficient service.

Infrastructure: The Mothership

In every city where Verne operates, a specialized infrastructure known as the "Mothership" will be established. This facility will handle the daily inspection, maintenance, cleaning, and charging of the Verne vehicles, guaranteeing that each ride is safe and clean. Additionally, Verne is constructing its first production facility in Croatia, which will manufacture autonomous electric vehicles for global deployment.

A New Brand Inspired by Innovation

Adriano Mudri, Chief Design Officer at Verne, explained the inspiration behind the brand's name: "We named ourselves after Jules Verne, the famous author known as 'the man who invented the future.' His spirit of innovation and exploration mirrors our vision for the future of mobility."

Customer-Centric Approach

Verne is not just about being the first to market; it is about perfecting the customer experience. According to co-founder Mate Rimac, "Our goal is to provide a mobility experience that surpasses even the best luxury services available today, but at an affordable price." The focus is on transforming travel time into an opportunity for personal growth, discovery, and enjoyment.

Key Features and Design

The Verne vehicle is unlike any other on the road today. It features a two-seater design, reflecting data that shows most rides are taken by one or two people. This allows for a spacious interior, more akin to a living room than a traditional car, with an ultra-wide 43-inch display, premium audio system, and multiple levels of comfort.

The exterior design is equally innovative, combining a sleek, spaceship-like canopy with a solid lower body. The absence of traditional car features like steering wheels, pedals, windshield wipers, and side-view mirrors enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the vehicle, improving aerodynamic performance and simplifying maintenance.

Ride-Hailing App

The Verne app is central to the user experience, allowing customers to hail a vehicle, track its location, and personalize their ride. This seamless integration ensures that every journey is not just about reaching a destination, but about enjoying the ride itself.

Infrastructure and Expansion

The "Mothership" facilities will play a crucial role in maintaining the fleet, ensuring that each vehicle is in top condition. The first production facility in Zagreb will position Croatia as a leader in the development of autonomous electric vehicles. Verne plans to expand its services beyond Zagreb to other European cities and the Middle East, with agreements already in place with 11 cities and negotiations ongoing with over 30 more.

Economic and Social Impact

Verne’s approach to future mobility promises significant benefits. Economically, it democratizes access to high-quality transportation, enhancing opportunities for all. By reducing the need for private cars, Verne will help alleviate urban congestion, free up parking spaces, and improve overall city infrastructure. Socially, the service offers a sustainable solution with positive environmental impacts, increased road safety, and greater accessibility.

Supporting Public Transportation

Verne aims to complement existing public transport systems, supporting cleaner and more efficient urban transportation modes. By reducing the reliance on private vehicles, Verne will help transform urban spaces, making cities more livable and environmentally friendly.