Serial autonomous vehicles on Israel’s roads: prospects for next year
Autonomous driving is approaching Israel thanks to a new international UN standard. Car importers are preparing for a shortage of vehicle-transport ships that could delay shipments until the end of the year. Also: BMW, Genesis, Toyota and KGM launch new models.
In the second half of next year, a regulation is expected to come into effect in Israel that will allow the operation of vehicles with advanced autonomous driving assistance systems. According to sources in the Ministry of Transport, local regulation has been in development for over five years, but implementation was delayed due to the lack of international standards and legal issues.
At the end of June, the UN’s main standards body (UNECE) approved international regulations for autonomous vehicles authorized to operate on public roads. Experts describe this as a breakthrough that will accelerate the process. This is the first comprehensive international standard regulating systems up to level 4 autonomy and above, meaning vehicles capable of driving in a controlled environment with minimal driver intervention.
Safety: At least equal to a human driver
The new framework defines safety requirements and uniform model-approval processes. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that the autonomous system functions at a safety level at least equal to that of a trained human driver. The standard also mandates the installation of data recording systems, continuous malfunction monitoring, and regulations for licensing vehicles without conventional steering wheels or pedals.
This standard is expected to be adopted automatically in Israel as part of European standardization, providing the Ministry of Transport with a basis for approving imports. However, it remains unclear how insurance companies will address the issue.
Industry experts estimate that initial adoption will focus on commercial fleets operating on defined routes, such as robotaxis, autonomous port cranes, and dedicated buses. The company “Hutsa Israel” is currently advancing a tender for a trial of autonomous shuttles in the Golan Heights.
Activating “dormant” systems
Vehicles with hardware and software packages supporting advanced autonomous driving are already being imported into Israel in a “dormant” state. Manufacturers can activate these remotely once regulations permit. Hundreds of such systems are installed in Tesla vehicles sold in Israel, as well as in new XPENG P7+, NIO, and Zeekr (Geely) models.
The Ministry of Transport stated: “The international standard approved by UNECE is a significant development. Professional bodies are currently examining it to ensure alignment with Israeli requirements. As of today, no applications for approval of autonomous driving systems have been submitted to the Ministry.”
New premium models: BMW and Genesis
Kalmoovil has launched the refreshed electric Genesis GV60. The vehicle features a new interior with a 27-inch horizontal screen and upgraded equipment. The battery capacity has been increased to 84 kWh, with a range of up to 561 km. Prices start at approximately 300,000 shekels.
Delek Rechev has launched the refreshed BMW 7 Series. The interior has been redesigned with a new multimedia system featuring a 17.9-inch screen and an advanced head-up display. Rear passengers have access to a 31-inch screen that folds into the ceiling. The model is available with a gasoline engine (400 hp), two plug-in hybrid options (up to 612 hp), and the electric I7 version with a 112.5 kWh battery (range up to 680 km). Prices range from 890,000 to 1.315 million shekels.
New pickups from KGM and Toyota
Telkar has begun marketing the new KGM Musso pickup (2.2-liter turbo-diesel, 202 hp, 4WD). The price is about 275,000 shekels. Meanwhile, Toyota has launched the new generation Hilux with a 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine and electric assistance (204 hp). Prices range from 310,000 to 360,000 shekels.
Logistics challenges
Importers warn of potential shipment delays in the final quarter of the year due to a shortage of vehicle-transport ships. The primary cause is a sharp increase in Chinese vehicle exports (a 65% increase in the first half of 2026). Combined with tensions in the Red Sea, this has led to a 45% rise in daily charter costs (to about $90,000 per day). Many importers are now shifting to more expensive container shipping.
