Mercedes and Momenta introduce S-Class robotaxi development in Abu Dhabi

Mercedes and Momenta announce an S-Class robotaxi project in Abu Dhabi, outlining plans for testing and potential expansion. Learn key details about the partnership.

Mercedes-Benz is taking a new step toward autonomous mobility by partnering with the Chinese technology company Momenta and the local operator Lumo to launch a robotaxi service based on the S-Class. The project begins in Abu Dhabi, where the first test vehicles are preparing to take to the roads. Lumo, a subsidiary of the technology group K2, has previously received approval to operate autonomous vehicles in the UAE, providing the regulatory foundation for this new mobility initiative.

The choice of the S-Class is deliberate: its MB.OS architecture allows for the integration of extensive sensor systems and Momenta’s software capabilities into an SAE Level 4 platform. This level of automation enables driverless operation under defined conditions, turning the luxury sedan into a fully functional autonomous shuttle. Mercedes emphasizes that the project aims to raise expectations for comfort and safety within the robotaxi sector.

Following the test phase in Abu Dhabi, the partners plan to explore expansion into additional markets. This approach aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s broader strategy, which includes several Level 4 initiatives — from collaborations with Nvidia to ongoing research in Beijing, where the company became the first international automaker to receive approval to test SAE Level 4 systems on urban roads.

The regional context shows that Abu Dhabi is emerging as a hub for autonomous mobility, with projects such as WeRide and Autogo/Apollo Go already active in the area. However, the new alliance between Mercedes and Momenta stands apart due to its combination of premium vehicle design, technological depth, and the operational presence of a local partner. The companies have not disclosed details regarding fleet size or planned routes, leaving room for cautious projections: the pace of expansion will depend on test outcomes, regulatory developments, and infrastructure readiness.

What is already evident is that Mercedes-Benz views autonomous driving as a key strategic field. The launch of an S-Class-based robotaxi service reinforces the idea that the shift toward higher levels of automation is progressing not only in mass-market mobility but also at the top end of the automotive segment.