Magdeburg is testing the autonomous AuRi cargo bike in the Elbarenpark!
The pilot test of the self-propelled cargo bike “AuRi” for sustainable transport solutions begins in the Elbarenpark Magdeburg.

Magdeburg is testing the autonomous AuRi cargo bike in the Elbarenpark!
Technological steps are being taken further in Magdeburg's Elbarenpark: a pilot test with the self-propelled cargo bike “AuRi” has started. The innovative vehicle was developed by the local start-up AuRaSys and will be presented at the state harvest festival on September 20th and 21st, 2025. “AuRi” is intended to provide support in particular with transport and clean-up work, as Tag24 reports.
This cargo bike is a pretty clever one. It autonomously follows a person wearing a transmitter and can therefore effortlessly transport materials or waste in the integrated container. The range of applications extends from event logistics to city cleaning. Thanks to its electrical support, “AuRi” moves silently and emission-free through the park and could thus revolutionize logistics in the region - more information can be found on the [Elbarenpark] website (https://www.elbarenpark.de/de/news/stressfrei-anreise-zum-landeserntedankfest-koppie/).
Technical details and possible uses
The cargo bike has some technical refinements to offer. It can be controlled manually or operated in assistance mode. In the latter case, it recognizes obstacles independently and thus masters navigation through the entertaining park area. Manual security monitoring is ensured during the testing phase to ensure everything works smoothly.
The “AuRa – Autonomous Wheel” project is not only a technical advance, but also a good thing for the environment. The project is supported by the EU and the Saxony-Anhalt Ministry of Infrastructure. High-ranking experts such as Stephan Schmidt, professor of mechatronic systems at Merseburg University, are involved in the development. As MDR describes, these autonomous cargo bikes could one day be operated as profitably as bike sharing models.
Future outlook and acceptance
What does the future of the project look like? There are considerations to further exploit the development potential so that normal bicycles could also be used autonomously. The demand for self-propelled cargo bikes is currently very positive; Numerous surveys show a high willingness to use it. According to the creators, calls for capacity expansion and more charging stations are often heard among users.
However, the market launch of autonomous bikes is still up in the air. There are currently legal uncertainties that could influence the future of autonomous mobility in Germany. But the talk of green logistics and the expected switch of many drivers to this form of transport could provide the impetus for necessary legal adjustments.
With this in mind, we look forward to the further developments of “AuRi” and its presentation at the state harvest festival. Maybe this self-propelled cargo bike will soon no longer be a rare sight in Magdeburg!