City Rolls Out Driverless Bus Program in Major Public Transit Overhaul
San Francisco, CA — In a bold step toward modernizing its public transportation system, San Francisco officially launched its first fleet of driverless buses today, marking a significant milestone in the city’s push for innovation and sustainability.
The program, called “SF Smart Transit,” features 25 autonomous electric buses operating on high-demand routes, including Market Street and Geary Boulevard. The buses, developed in partnership with BayTech Mobility, are equipped with advanced AI systems, multiple safety redundancies, and zero-emission technology.
Mayor London Breed, who attended the inaugural ride, called it a “game changer” for San Francisco’s struggling transit system. “This is about building a greener, more efficient future for our city,” she said. “These buses are safer, more reliable, and better for the environment.”
Not everyone is on board, however. Critics have raised concerns about potential job losses for drivers and the readiness of the technology. Transit union representatives demanded assurances that current drivers will be retrained and reassigned.
City officials have committed to closely monitoring the program’s performance over the next six months. If successful, SF Smart Transit could expand to other routes by the end of the year, further solidifying San Francisco’s reputation as a leader in urban innovation.
