Pony.ai Targets 1,000 Robotaxis in 2025, Eyes Global Expansion
- tech360.tv
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Chinese autonomous driving firm Pony.ai plans to mass produce 1,000 robotaxis this year, partnering with major carmakers to accelerate commercialisation and reduce costs.
The Guangzhou-based company will work with GAC, BAIC and Toyota to build its driverless fleet, according to Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer Lou Tiancheng.
Pony.ai is the only company approved to operate robotaxi services in China’s four most developed cities. It recently received a permit to charge fares in Shanghai’s Pudong New Area, marking a key milestone in its commercial rollout.
The company will initially operate in the Jinqiao and Huamu areas, covering 40 sq km, with plans to expand across Pudong’s 1,400 sq km zone.
Pony.ai has also extended its operating hours in Beijing, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, now offering services around the clock. Previously, its robotaxis ran only from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Lou said the company is exploring new revenue streams, including in-car infotainment services and supplying autonomous driving systems to carmakers.
Pony.ai is also eyeing overseas markets such as Hong Kong, South Korea, the Middle East and Europe.
BofA Securities said in a report that Pony.ai’s latest permit in Shanghai demonstrates its readiness in the robotaxi sector and could lead to improved profitability through economies of scale.
Pony.ai, along with Baidu’s Apollo and start-up WeRide, is considered one of China’s top contenders in the global robotaxi race, competing with US-based Waymo.
HSBC estimates that driverless cabs could make up 6% of China’s taxi market, with the sector potentially reaching a value of USD 40 billion annually.
Despite a 4.3% rise in revenue to USD 75 million last year, Pony.ai’s net loss more than doubled to USD 275 million.
Shanghai also granted pilot robotaxi licences to Baidu’s Apollo, WeRide, Jinjiang Taxi, Dazhong Transportation and SAIC Motor during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference.
The move highlights Shanghai’s commitment to advancing autonomous driving technology.
Pony.ai aims to produce 1,000 robotaxis in 2025 with GAC, BAIC and Toyota
Company expands operations in Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou and Shenzhen
Exploring new revenue from infotainment and autonomous systems
Source: SCMP