BENTELER Group acquires Frankfurt’s ioki to build Europe’s first integrated autonomous public transport platform

January 6, 2026 at 08:08 AM UTC
EU-Startups
Original: EN
BENTELER Group acquires Frankfurt’s ioki to build Europe’s first integrated autonomous public transport platform

BENTELER Group's acquisition of ioki from Deutsche Bahn is set to establish the first integrated autonomous public transport platform in Europe. This strategic move brings together HOLON, ioki, and Benteler Mobility, forming a full-service provider aimed at advancing autonomous mobility solutions across the continent. The deal signifies a major step toward integrating autonomous vehicles into existing public transportation networks. The acquisition will integrate HOLON's autonomous urban shuttle manufacturing, ioki's platform and routing technology for on-demand services, and Benteler Mobility's operational services and fleet financing. ioki, founded in 2018, has already deployed its on-demand software in approximately 200 flexible transport services, serving nearly 10 million passengers. This integrated approach simplifies the deployment and operation of autonomous vehicles. This collaboration will significantly impact municipalities and transport operators by reducing costs and streamlining the introduction of autonomous mobility services. Data-driven analysis by ioki will identify areas where autonomous vehicles can enhance public transport, offering scalable solutions designed to work seamlessly with existing infrastructure. The acquisition provides ioki access to international markets. This initiative is part of BENTELER Group's strategic evolution into a leading provider within the autonomous mobility sector, complementing its core business in metal processing. The combined expertise of the three entities promises to accelerate the adoption of autonomous transport technologies across Europe.

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Publication: EU-Startups
Published: January 6, 2026 at 08:08 AM UTC
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