Chinese autonomous driving firm WeRide has expanded its global footprint with the launch of high-level autonomous shuttles in Europe, marking a milestone in its partnership with beti, French insurer Macif, and Renault Group, the company said on Monday.
The initiative introduces fully operational self-driving shuttles aimed at improving public transportation efficiency, safety, and comfort. WeRide CEO Tony Han, in an interview with CNBC, emphasized that the technology addresses labor shortages in aging societies while enhancing mobility solutions.
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“If you have ever taken a ride in our autonomous driving bus, it’s like a private cabinet and it’s very comfortable,” Han said, underscoring its potential to mitigate bus driver shortages in high-labor-cost regions.
WeRide, which has held Nvidia’s backing since 2017, has strategically navigated geopolitical complexities by complying with local regulations and integrating into local economies. Han compared the company’s global approach to Thomas Edison’s light bulb, stating it is “not only lighting up America but also lighting up the rest of the world.”
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The company sees its strongest growth potential in markets with aging populations, including China, the U.S., the UAE, and Singapore, where it already holds driverless permits. Han dismissed concerns about job displacement, arguing that autonomous driving will create new employment opportunities while reducing reliance on repetitive labor.
WeRide’s European expansion serves as a model for future market entries, with plans to scale operations into the Middle East and Southeast Asia. “Driving is a tedious job. And it can be a hobby, but it shouldn’t be a task,” Han said, outlining WeRide’s broader vision to automate mobility while fostering new job opportunities.
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