Leuven: autonomous Mobility in Action

What does the project entail?

Two autonomous shuttles from the company WeRide have been operating since September 11, 2025, in the city center of Leuven. Engineers from the company first programmed the software in the vehicles. They then mapped the city center, using the camera and radar technology onboard, under the guidance of drivers from De Lijn. After learning the traffic movements and covering sufficient test miles, passengers can start riding from January 22. The driver, who is still present in the vehicle on every ride, ensures a safe journey.

What do you need to know as a traveler?

• The bus automatically stops at all stops, so there is no need to press the bell.

• Please take a seat and fasten your seatbelt; this is mandatory.

• There is room for a maximum of eight passengers.

• Register your boarding digitally as a subscriber. Or purchase a standard ticket in advance via SMS or our app. Payment or scanning on the bus is not possible.

• As a passenger with limited mobility, you can travel if you can be seated and buckled with a seatbelt. Wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on this vehicle.

Why is this project special?

This is the first time autonomous vehicles are operating in busy city traffic in Belgium. Previous trials took place on closed-off areas. Leuven is serving as a testing ground thanks to a thorough risk analysis and collaboration between public and private partners.

Who are the partners?

The project is a collaboration between De Lijn, City of Leuven, Brussels Mobility, MIVB, LETEC, WeRide (supplier of the vehicles, supported by the Renault Group), EIT Urban Mobility (European initiative), the Flemish government through the Department of Mobility and Public Works, and the federal government through the Federal Public Service Mobility and Transport.

What is the goal?

• Build knowledge about autonomous mobility

• Test technology in realistic conditions

• Improve mobility in cities and rural areas

What are the benefits?

• Increase road safety

• Reduce traffic jams and parking pressure

• Provide better last-mile connections

European and Belgian collaboration

A unique feature of this project is the collaboration between public actors from all three Belgian regions. De Lijn is taking the necessary steps to set up a follow-up project.

Schedule and route

Autonomous shuttles follow a fixed route of about 4 kilometers between Louvain station and Heverlee. The shuttles only operate in the afternoon. The route has been carefully selected based on safety, accessibility, and relevance for commuters and students. Consult the timetable via our route planner and app. Search for line 16 and enter a date to see the stops.

Line 16 - autonomous bus Leuven

Autonomous bus Leuven: a first for our passengers

Starting Thursday, January 22, a new phase in our pilot project on autonomous mobility in Leuven will begin. For the first time, you can ride an autonomous bus on the new line 16.

Read more