Phoenix Motor Inc., dba PhoenixEV, is working with technology company ADASTEC Corp. to build new autonomous electric buses.
The 40-foot buses will be powered by batteries and will use advanced Level 4 software to operate without a driver in certain areas.
With this development, the companies aim to help public transport systems become cleaner and more efficient. As more cities look for ways to cut emissions and deal with driver shortages, interest in electric and automated buses is growing.
Specifically, the vehicles will be designed for transit agencies, universities, and municipal operators looking to demonstrate and deploy automated vehicles in real-world applications.
Denton Peng, CEO of Phoenix Motor Inc. said:At Phoenix, we're focused on delivering sustainable, intelligent transportation solutions that go beyond just electrification. By partnering with ADASTEC, we're taking a significant leap forward-bringing Level-4 automated technology to our zero-emission platforms. This positions us at the forefront of the future of transit and supports our customers in their goals for cleaner, safer, and more efficient mobility.
The first electric self-driving bus from this project is expected to be ready later this year. Test runs with passengers are expected to begin in early 2026.
Dr. Ali Peker, CEO of ADASTEC said:PhoenixEV's Buy America compliant electric buses align perfectly with our SAE Level-4 automated driving platform. We see this partnership as a strategic step to further expand automated public transit in the United States, building on the real-world experience we have gained through multiple deployments across North America and Europe.
By combining PhoenixEV's manufacturing strength with our proven automated driving software platform, we deliver a commercially available, accessible, and connected mobility solution that meets today's transportation needs while shaping a smarter and more inclusive future for public transit.
