WeRide has expanded its autonomous vehicle offerings with the introduction of the GXR robotaxi in Beijing. This latest deployment underscores the company’s commitment to advancing self-driving technology in urban environments. The GXR model is poised to enhance the transportation landscape by providing fully autonomous paid rides without the need for a safety driver.
WeRide’s GXR marks a significant step from its initial deployment in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the company’s ability to scale its technology across different international markets. The expansion into Beijing demonstrates WeRide’s strategic focus on key urban areas to establish a robust presence in the autonomous vehicle sector.
What Features Enhance the GXR Robotaxi’s Performance?
The GXR robotaxi is outfitted with more than 20 sensors and a high-performance computing platform, ensuring precise navigation and safety. Its L4 redundant drive-by-wire chassis architecture and the innovative hidden B-pillar design provide durability and a spacious environment for up to five passengers, along with ample luggage storage.
In Which Areas Will the GXR Operate?
The robotaxi service covers vital regions within the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area, including major high-speed railway stations. Additionally, the GXR is approved for commercial operations on highways, encompassing routes to and from Beijing Daxing International Airport, thereby enhancing connectivity for travelers.
What Are WeRide’s Future Plans for Robotaxi Deployment?
WeRide aims to scale its unmanned robotaxi operations in Beijing to several hundred vehicles by 2025. The company also plans to launch deployments in Zurich, Switzerland, and continue expanding its services across other Chinese cities and internationally.
“The commercial launch of Robotaxi GXR in Beijing represents a pivotal achievement for WeRide and the autonomous driving industry,” stated Dr. Tony Han, founder and CEO of WeRide.
WeRide’s deployment aligns with its broader strategy of providing autonomous driving systems from SAE Level 2 to Level 4 across 30 cities in seven countries. The company’s recent listing on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the ticker “WRD” and the successful raising of $458.5 million reflect growing investor confidence and the increasing viability of autonomous vehicle technologies.
WeRide’s deployment of the GXR robotaxi signifies a robust step forward in autonomous mobility. By eliminating the need for safety drivers, WeRide reduces operational costs and increases scalability. Passengers can benefit from increased convenience and reliability, while the company positions itself competitively in the expanding autonomous vehicle market.
