Revolution on Israel's Roads – Where Robot Cars Will Appear First

Israel's Ministry of Transport plans to introduce a regulatory framework for driverless cars by 2027, following the UN's approval of global rules. The first autonomous vehicles will be robotaxis, port machinery, and shuttles, including a pilot project on the Golan Heights.

Israel is preparing for the official arrival of fully autonomous vehicles on its roads. The Ministry of Transport expects the regulatory framework for Level 4 autonomy to be operational in the second half of 2027. This became possible after the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) approved the first global set of rules for autonomous vehicles in late June 2026. Sources in the ministry called the decision 'a breakthrough that will accelerate the process.' Key requirements: the autopilot must drive no worse than an experienced driver, vehicles must have 'black boxes,' certification without steering wheels and pedals is allowed, and manufacturers must provide remote monitoring. Israel is expected to harmonize its legislation with EU standards. Initially, autonomous vehicles will appear in commercial settings: robotaxis, autonomous cranes in ports, shuttles, and buses. The company 'Hotze Israel' is preparing a tender for experimental shuttles on the Golan Heights, initially with a safety driver. Legal details of insurance are still under discussion.