Kazakhstan to launch driverless lorries in 2027 to increase transit capacity

Kazakhstan plans to launch a project in 2027 to introduce driverless freight lorries on international routes. This was announced by the Minister of Transport of the Republic, Nurlan Sauranbayev, at a government briefing, according to a report by  Kazinform, a TV BRICS partner.

The initiative is intended to be implemented jointly with neighbouring countries within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The goal is to accelerate border crossings and unlock the country’s transit potential.

“Queues at border checkpoints occur because of passport control procedures for drivers. If a driverless lorry crosses the border independently, this will significantly speed up the process. We already have a programme in place, and I believe that if we launch a major pilot with our neighbours in 2027, it will greatly strengthen Kazakhstan’s transit potential,” Sauranbayev noted.

According to the minister, the introduction of autonomous freight lorries will reduce transportation costs by eliminating expenses related to drivers. In addition, such vehicles will be able to operate around the clock, tripling delivery speed and improving the environmental situation.

It is highlighted that Kazakhstan’s authorities are already incorporating the requirements for autonomous transport into future road infrastructure. New motorways will be equipped with the necessary sensors during construction.

As the minister added, in the long term (2036–2040), freight transport is expected to transition to electric traction and driverless operation, as well as adopt the road train format (extended vehicle units).

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