July 10, 2024

 

Shanghai joins China's top-tier cities in allowing driverless robotaxis without safety supervisors, a move aimed at advancing autonomous driving technology.

Residents can now book free rides with Baidu, SAIC Motor-owned Saike Technology, Pony. ai, and Auto X in designated areas of Shanghai's Pudong district until January 4.

This follows similar initiatives in Beijing, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, marking significant progress toward commercializing auto-driving technology in China.

With competition from U.S. firms like Tesla and Waymo intensifying, Chinese cities are accelerating efforts to test and refine autonomous vehicle capabilities on their roads.