AutoNavi Partners with WeRide to Launch Self-Driving Rides in Guangzhou

Chinese mapping and navigation services provider AutoNavi and smart mobility company WeRide have officially launched Robotaxi services in Guangzhou.

SEE ALSO: AutoX Partners with AutoNavi to Offer RoboTaxi Services in Shanghai

Passengers in Guangzhou can order self-driving cars via AutoNavi’s Amap app and enjoy free rides for the first month. Since the service is open to public, anyone can try it without applying but it’s recommended that no more than 3 passengers should be on one single ride. Furthermore, for reasons of safety, each vehicle is equipped with a security officer.

In order to get an autonomous taxi, the pick-up location and the destination have to be within Robotaxi’s operation range, which covers about 144 sq. km in the Huangpu District in addition to the central area of the Guangzhou Development Zone. Currently, there are nearly 200 loading and unloading spots, and the operation time is between 8 AM and 10 PM.

WeRide, as an L4 autonomous driving company, has over 100 self-driving vehicle fleets and launched China’s first Robotaxi services at the end of November 2019. Within the first month of operation, 8,396 travel orders were completed, with a total mileage of 41,140 km.

Alibaba-backed AutoNavi has connected with more than 40 travel service providers, including taxis, ride-hailing platforms and self-driving cars. AutoNavi and WeRide say they will continue working together to expand the scope of their operations.