Poznan, September 19, 2025
For years, the Municipal Transport Company in Poznan (MPK Poznan) has been investing in advanced technologies – from electric buses to hydrogen-powered vehicles. Now, the operator has taken another step forward. MPK Poznan has completed an operational readiness assessment for the deployment of SmartDEPOT™ – a system that enables buses to move autonomously within the depot.
The technology was developed by Autonomous Systems, a company based in Gliwice, specializing in the autonomization of urban transport.
– The depot is the heart of our daily operations, says Krzysztof Dostatni, President of MPK Poznan. Every day, hundreds of buses depart from here – they need to be functional, safe, and ready on time. That’s why we are interested in solutions that genuinely improve our operations. SmartDEPOT™ addresses these needs and aligns perfectly with our strategy – from zero emissions to autonomy.
– Autonomy doesn’t start on public roads – it starts in depots, emphasizes Jan Gramatyka, Business Development Manager at Autonomous Systems. “SmartDEPOT™ is a practical tool that allows operators to reclaim drivers’ time and make better use of depot space. It’s a technology that works here and now.
Premiere on October 2 – Followed by Busworld Europe
The official presentation of SmartDEPOT™ will take place during the meeting of the IGKM Bus Fleet Committee, scheduled for October 2 in Jelenia Gora. Just a few days later, Autonomous Systems will showcase its solution at Busworld Europe 2025, the largest bus industry trade fair in Europe. This is where smartbuses will be presented to a broad international audience for the first time.
SmartDEPOT™ – Autonomy That Works
The SmartDEPOT™ system enables buses to autonomously perform maneuvers within the depot – including parking, approaching charging stations, car washes, or maintenance workshops. It does not require any reconstruction of existing infrastructure and is fully scalable.
By integrating with SmartDEPOT™ Mission Control, operators gain full, real-time control over depot logistics and vehicle movements – all from a single interface.
Key benefits include:
- reduced workload for drivers and depot staff,
- fewer collisions and human errors,
- better utilization of depot space,
- scalability – from the first smartbus to an entire fleet.
Smartbuses in Every Depot
For years, the public transport sector has been struggling with a shortage of drivers and rising operational costs. That is why the depot is the most rational and practical place to introduce autonomous technologies first – a closed environment where vehicles move at low speeds and follow predictable scenarios. It is significantly safer and easier to control than public roads, while remaining fully compliant with current legal frameworks.
– In future tenders, the question will no longer be whether a bus should be autonomous in the depot – but why it isn’t, says Jan Gramatyka. This is a natural stage in the evolution of urban transport.