Nan Fang Du Shi Bao·2026-03-27 07:39Core Insights - A strategic partnership has been formed between Pony.ai, Verne, and Uber to launch the first commercial Robotaxi service in Zagreb, Croatia, currently in the road testing and initial deployment phase [1][2]. Group 1: Partnership Details - Pony.ai will provide Level 4 autonomous driving solutions and its seventh-generation system, which will be installed in the BAIC Arcfox Alpha T5 Robotaxi model [1]. - Verne will manage the local fleet, market access, and European regulatory approvals as the fleet owner and operator [1][2]. - Uber will integrate the autonomous driving service into its global ride-hailing network and plans to make a strategic investment in Verne to support its business expansion [1][2]. Group 2: Market Implications - If successful, Zagreb could become the first European city to implement a commercial Robotaxi operation, marking a shift from "technology validation" to a "commercial closed loop" [1][2]. - The collaboration is seen as a significant step for Pony.ai's technology expansion into international markets, leveraging Uber's global network and Verne's local capabilities [2][3]. Group 3: Industry Context - This partnership is viewed as a landmark event for Chinese autonomous driving technology entering overseas markets, moving from testing and joint development to actual market implementation [3]. - Challenges remain, including regulatory differences across European countries, stringent safety standards, and the need to cultivate public acceptance [3].