AD Hub for
HOLON urbans
in Hamburg
completed

HOLON is taking the next step toward autonomous mobility: The first depot specifically designed for autonomous buses by Hamburger Hochbahn AG (HOCHBAHN) has been completed. 

Starting in early 2026, HOLON’s autonomous shuttles will operate from the so-called “AD Hub” as part of the ALIKE project in the Hamburg metropolitan area.

The approximately 2,000-square-meter hub in Barmbek forms the operational backbone for the future deployment of autonomous on-demand shuttles in public transport. It offers parking spaces for up to ten vehicles, charging infrastructure for fully electric operation, a workshop, and an administration building for management and service teams. Sustainability was a key focus during construction: green roofing, photovoltaic systems, and modular design ensure flexibility and resource conservation.

“Following the successful approval of our vehicles by the German Federal Motor Transport Authority, the new AD Hub is the next crucial step for HOLON in the ALIKE project. With this central location, our shuttles have a home perfectly tailored to the requirements of autonomous and electric operations. This lays the foundation for future passenger service and scaling in Hamburg,” says Dr. Sven Herzig, CSO HOLON.

The barrier-free, fully electric HOLON shuttles offer space for up to 15 passengers and are equipped with an automatic ramp, secured wheelchair space, as well as acoustic and visual assistance systems. During the test phase, safety drivers will monitor operations while the system largely performs the driving task autonomously.

Over the course of next year, operations will gradually open to a closed user group, who can book the shuttles via the hvv switch and MOIA apps. The ALIKE project is funded by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport with €26 million