SHOW was a European research and demonstration project focused on whether automated vehicles could become a practical part of urban transport—not just a technology trial, but a service connected to public transit, on-demand travel and freight. Its full name was “SHared automation Operating models for Worldwide adoption.” The project ran from January 2020 to September 2024 and was funded through the European Union’s Horizon 2020 programme.46
Coordinated by the International Association of Public Transport (UITP), SHOW brought together 66 partners from across Europe, including cities, research organisations and industry.411 Its demonstrations took place in 20 cities, where partners tested shared, connected and electric automated vehicles in real traffic. The fleet included shuttles, buses and robotaxis, serving passenger and freight transport through public transport, demand-responsive transport, Mobility as a Service and Logistics as a Service.46
The project’s approach paired vehicle trials with questions about how services would work for people and cities: which use cases could attract users, meet actual demand and operate cost-effectively; how vehicles would interact with urban traffic; and what business models and policies might support wider deployment.69 The demonstrations also examined the role of supporting infrastructure, including 5G and connected transport systems.9
At its conclusion, SHOW reported that more than 72 automated vehicles had been deployed in real-world settings. The trials exposed the vehicles to everyday urban conditions, including traffic and weather, and generated findings intended to inform future deployment.4 The project’s stated legacy is practical evidence and guidance for cities considering automated mobility, rather than a claim that the trials alone establish its long-term effects.46