Overview

In Germany, innovative drivers utilize advanced racing rigs to remotely command vehicles on designated routes, with the expectation to start offering these services on public roads beginning December 1 this year.

My younger sister is a fan of Euro Truck Simulator 2. She recently acquired a racing wheel for a more immersive experience of navigating through simulated German landscapes. Unlike her, I find it puzzling to simulate an activity available in reality—until I heard of Germany’s remote-operated taxis.

At Berlin’s former Tegel airport, skilled operators are taking to sophisticated driving simulators to manage vehicles along the runway. Through four overhead cameras on each car, they can monitor the vehicles’ movements from afar—something that not only incites envy among gamers.

Among the many racing wheels in our best racing wheel guide, the setups they employ here surpass even the finest. With the aid of extensive triple monitors and comfortable gaming equipment, including the Logitech G430 headset, these remote drivers are in for a treat.

While marketing for Vay, Berlin-based and currently on trial operations in Las Vegas, confirms that self-driving vehicle services, such as those from Waymo and Cruise, remain illegal in Germany. Thanks to recent legislation promoting commercial uses of remote-operated vehicles, drivers may take to approved roads starting December 1 of this year.

Remote Operations vs. Taxi Services

This model acts more as a rental car service than a typical taxi. Remote drivers do not take passengers but instead deliver vehicles to users who requested them. When the user is finished, the remote driver manages the vehicle’s parking as well.

While concerns regarding latency linger, the operation retains full human oversight. If issues arise, responsibility rests squarely with the human operator, avoiding complications seen with automated systems that might create confusion in the event of technical difficulties.

Shift in the Workforce

Vay’s CEO, Thomas von der Ohe, asserts that this arrangement ensures a safer working environment for drivers. By employing remote workers previously for Uber, where safety was often compromised through varied circumstances, they promote a friendlier atmosphere. The company’s workers receive hourly pay as opposed to ride-based compensation provided traditionally by rideshare services.

Under this model, clients will pay for their vehicle’s rental by the minute, anticipated to be around half the rates of common car-sharing alternatives. Although one can’t help but speculate whether Vay might eventually increase prices akin to competitors if it achieves notable success, time will tell whether this innovation paves the way for future developments in transportation.