Baidu’s autonomous vehicle service, Apollo Go, has received approval to conduct robotaxi trials in Hong Kong, marking a significant expansion outside mainland China. The Hong Kong Transport Department issued the first pilot license for an autonomous vehicle on December 8, 2024, allowing Apollo Go to operate 10 robotaxis on North Lantau Island.
Although the statement did not directly name Baidu, the license was granted to Baidu Apollo International Ltd., the operator of the Apollo Go platform. The license, valid until December 8, 2029, permits the operation of one autonomous private vehicle at a time on designated roads. During the trial phase, a backup operator will be stationed in the vehicle to take control when necessary.
A Baidu spokesperson emphasized the company’s commitment to expanding its global presence, stating, “Apollo Go looks forward to bringing the benefit of AI and autonomous driving technology to more countries and regions, providing more users with green, safe, and comfortable autonomous ride-hailing services.” The spokesperson also highlighted the milestone of obtaining the first right-hand drive autonomous driving test license granted by Hong Kong.
This marks a significant development for Baidu’s international expansion. Hong Kong has been actively promoting autonomous vehicles since 2017, and in March 2024, the government introduced new legislation that facilitates public road trials of such vehicles. The new regulatory framework, effective March 1, 2024, provides a flexible environment for the development of robotaxi services.
As part of its broader autonomous vehicle initiative, Baidu has also launched the $1 billion Smart Traffic Fund, which supports innovative vehicle technologies. So far, 12 approved projects have focused on autonomous vehicles. This license is the first of its kind issued since the new legislation was implemented.
Apollo Go, which operates in over 10 cities across mainland China, is expected to begin its Hong Kong trials by the end of this year, with the initial phase planned for the airport area. Baidu has also been advancing its robotaxi fleet, with the deployment of its sixth-generation vehicle, which has seen a 60% reduction in cost compared to previous models.
