By South China Morning Post | Created at 2025-01-03 23:11:36 | Updated at 2025-01-06 00:07:27
2 days ago
Toyota Motor-backed Pony.ai plans to launch its robotaxis in Hong Kong, looking to go head-to-head with Baidu’s fleet in the city, as Chinese autonomous-driving technology companies expand their operations into international markets.
Based in Guangzhou, Pony.ai said it seeks to provide “robotaxi commuting services” for airport staff within the Hong Kong International Airport and later expand into the city’s urban areas, the company said in a statement on Friday. It did not provide a timeline for its local robotaxi launch.
The company, which promoted its sixth-generation robotaxi at the Hong Kong airport last month, said the facility was already set to use or plans to deploy driverless vehicles.
The company, which currently operates a fleet of more than 250 robotaxis and 190 robotrucks, did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Friday.
Pony.ai’s latest expansion plans reflect its improved financial position in developing and operating self-driving vehicles, after the company raised US$413.4 million in an initial public offering on Nasdaq and concurrent private placements in November.
