Pony.ai has received regulatory approval to operate paid fully driverless robotaxi services in Shenzhen’s Nanshan District, marking a first for the city’s central business area. The permit, announced on March 27, enables the autonomous driving company to launch commercial operations in one of China’s major economic hubs.
The company plans to extend its driverless services to connect Nanshan with Baoan District, establishing the first cross-district robotaxi network in Shenzhen. The service aims to improve access between technology zones, commercial centers, and key infrastructure such as Shenzhen Baoan International Airport.
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The robotaxis operate daily from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and are available for booking via the Pony.ai app and WeChat. Pony.ai’s autonomous system is designed to navigate complex urban features including high-density traffic, tunnels, and non-standard roads, according to the company.
“Expanding to Shenzhen’s city centers accelerates public trust in driverless technology,” said James Peng, co-founder and CEO of Pony.ai.
See also: Pony.AI Begins Robotaxi Tests on Beijing Highways Without Driver Seat Safety Officer
Nanshan District, with a GDP approaching RMB1 trillion and a population nearing 2 million, represents a strategic location for the deployment. Baoan District, home to more than 4 million residents and the city’s international airport, adds scale and logistical value to the cross-district network.
Pony.ai has previously conducted commercial driverless operations in Beijing and Guangzhou, where its robotaxis recorded an average of 15 paid rides per vehicle per day in early 2024. The company has accumulated nearly 45 million kilometers in autonomous testing, including 5 million kilometers without a safety driver onboard.