Israel eyes 2027 rollout for Level 4 autonomous vehicles after UN breakthrough

Israel plans to implement regulations in the second half of 2027 to allow Level 4 autonomous vehicles on public roads, following a UNECE approval of an international standard in late June. The standard, expected to be adopted in Israel, will ease import permits. Initial adoption likely focuses on commercial fleets like robotaxis and port cranes. The Cross Israel company is promoting a tender for autonomous shuttles in the Golan Heights.

Israel is preparing to allow Level 4 autonomous vehicles on its roads, with regulations expected to take effect in the second half of 2027, according to sources in the Ministry of Transport. The move follows a breakthrough at the UN: in late June, the UNECE approved the first comprehensive international regulation for fully autonomous systems (Level 4 and above), which includes safety requirements, uniform approval processes, and provisions for vehicles without steering wheels. The new standard, which Israel is expected to adopt automatically as part of European standards, will provide a ready-made basis for import permits. The automotive industry anticipates initial adoption in commercial fleets on limited routes, such as robotaxis, port cranes, and designated buses. The Cross Israel company is promoting a tender for autonomous shuttles in the Golan Heights, starting with a control driver and later without. Local regulations have been in development for over five years but were delayed due to lack of international standards and legal issues. The article notes uncertainty about how insurance companies will respond.