WeRide's Robotaxi Receives Driverless Permit in Switzerland; Autonomous Vehicles Now Licensed in 8 Countries

Core Insights - WeRide has received a driverless permit for its Robotaxi from Switzerland's Federal Roads Office, allowing it to operate autonomously in the Furttal region, marking the first such permit for passenger Robotaxis in Switzerland [1][2] Company Developments - With this new permit, WeRide becomes the only company globally with autonomous driving permits in eight countries, including Switzerland, China, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, France, Belgium, and the United States, highlighting its significant global expansion [2] - The Robotaxis will operate under the "iamo" pilot program, which aims to integrate autonomous vehicles into public transport systems, enhancing local mobility and last-mile connectivity across a 110-kilometer area with approximately 460 stops [3] - Testing of the Robotaxis is currently underway with an on-board safety driver, ensuring compliance with Swiss road regulations before moving to fully driverless operations [4][5] Future Plans - WeRide anticipates launching fully driverless public passenger services in the first half of 2026, with plans to expand its fleet to include Robobuses, creating Switzerland's first mixed fleet of Robotaxis and Robobuses [6] - Since June 2025, WeRide has been operating a Robobus shuttle service for Zurich Airport employees, indicating its growing presence in the region [7] Company Background - WeRide is recognized as a leader in the autonomous driving industry, being the first publicly traded Robotaxi company, with operations tested in over 30 cities across 11 countries [8]