A small electric vehicle, autonomous and available on demand like a taxi. It is called RailEvo and it represents a new vision of rail mobility developed in Italy’s northern region of Trentino-Alto Adige to revolutionize local public transport. In recent days, the startup based at the Polo Meccatronica di Rovereto unveiled in Trento the first working prototype of the system, created in collaboration with Trentino Sviluppo, Fondazione Bruno Kessler (FBK), and Trentino Trasporti.

The project aims to redefine the concept of railway mobility through a network of electric and autonomous rail taxis capable of operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with on-demand rides and without the constraints of traditional timetables.

The startup’s goal is to enhance public transport over short distances and in areas with variable demand, with particular attention to single-track railway lines such as the Trento-Malé route.

One of the key features of the RailEvo system is the possibility of fitting two dedicated tracks within the space currently occupied by a conventional single railway track. This solution would allow vehicles to travel simultaneously in both directions, increasing service frequency and flexibility without the need to build major new infrastructure.

The project is a concrete example of how research and innovation can be transformed into new industrial opportunities linked to sustainable mobility. The initiative has strong innovative potential, especially for connecting valleys and interurban areas, thanks to the possibility of reusing existing or abandoned railway lines with lower costs and reduced environmental impact compared to conventional systems.

Autonomous, Electric and On-Demand Rail Shuttles

The concept developed by RailEvo is based on small autonomous electric rail shuttles and combines sustainability, automation, and lower operating costs.

From a technical standpoint, the vehicle has been designed with a narrow and aerodynamic structure to maximize energy efficiency. It is also capable of carrying bicycles, wheelchairs, and light freight, with enough room for two Euro pallets.

One of the project’s most innovative aspects is its operating model. Through a dedicated app, passengers will be able to book their rail taxi at any time, without having to wait for scheduled departures.

The service will operate continuously and will offer different travel options, ranging from direct private rides to shared trips with intermediate stops, helping reduce costs and optimize transport flows.

Innovative technologies for the production and recycling of electric and hybrid vehicles will be presented at E-Tech Europe, taking place 7–9 October 2026 at BolognaFiere, as part of Urban Tech 2026 – The Urban Technology Show, the new event dedicated to e-mobility, traffic, commuting, security, telecommunications & data, and environment.

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