Yandex Qazaqstan has presented a robotaxi in Almaty. The service is currently at the preparation stage; however, driverless taxis may hit the roads of Kazakhstan’s major cities in the near future, the Ministry of Transport said in a statement.
A Hyundai Sonata modified for autonomous driving was shown to Vice Minister of Transport Damir Kozhakhmetov. The showcase was held as part of efforts to develop intelligent transport systems and to examine driverless transport capabilities in Kazakhstan.
The service is expected to be introduced gradually. Initially, the robotaxis will operate in a pilot area, allowing the technology to be tested under real urban conditions. The company also promises round-the-clock access to dispatch operators and insurance coverage for trips.
According to the ministry, under the president’s instruction, legislative amendments enabling the official use of driverless vehicles in Kazakhstan are being developed.
The amendments are expected to define the rules governing robotaxi operations, distribute responsibilities among government bodies, and create the necessary legal framework for such services to operate.
Almaty and Astana are considered the most likely locations for the launch of robotaxi services. According to the ministry, these cities have the necessary digital infrastructure to support the deployment of driverless vehicles. At the same time, authorities expect the technology to be introduced gradually and only in compliance with all safety requirements.
Robotaxis are gradually becoming part of the transport infrastructure in countries around the world. While Kazakhstan is still preparing to introduce the technology, authorities already see it as a tool for advancing urban mobility.
