Pony.ai Wins First Permit for Fully Driverless Robotaxi Operation in Shenzhen's City Centers

Core Insights - Pony.ai has received authorization to operate paid fully-driverless robotaxis in Shenzhen's Nanshan District, marking a significant milestone for autonomous ride-hailing services in urban centers [1][2] Company Expansion - The company is expanding its commercial operations to connect Nanshan with the existing service zone in Baoan District, covering two of Shenzhen's most dynamic urban areas [2] - The Nanshan District has a GDP nearing RMB 1 trillion in 2024 and a population close to 2 million, indicating a strong demand for smart mobility solutions [2][3] Service Development - The new permit allows Pony.ai to establish Shenzhen's first cross-district driverless network, linking key tech hubs in Nanshan with central areas in Baoan, including Shenzhen Baoan International Airport [3] - The service operates daily from 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM, providing a reliable commuting option for residents in authorized zones through Pony.ai's app or WeChat mini-program [6] Technological Proficiency - Pony.ai's fleet has shown exceptional performance in Shenzhen's challenging urban environment, which includes heavy traffic and narrow lanes, demonstrating the maturity of its autonomous technology [4] - The company has accumulated nearly 45 million kilometers in autonomous testing, with 5 million kilometers in driverless mode, indicating robust operational capabilities [5] Industry Leadership - Pony.ai continues to lead in autonomous mobility innovation across China's tier-1 cities, with an average of over 15 daily paid rides per vehicle in Beijing and Guangzhou during the first half of 2024 [5] - The CEO emphasized the importance of expanding fully driverless services to enhance public adoption and trust in autonomous technology [6][7]