Singapore Minister Visits WeRide HQ, Plans AV Public Housing Deployment

Singapore's Acting Minister for Transport, Jeffrey Siow, led a delegation to WeRide's headquarters in Guangzhou to strengthen collaboration on autonomous vehicle (AV) technology and its integration into Singapore's public transport system. The government announced plans to deploy AVs in public housing estates by the end of 2025, starting with the Punggol area and expanding to Tengah, aiming to address labor shortages and support routes that are difficult to operate with conventional manpower. This initiative reflects Singapore's strategic commitment to innovation in autonomous mobility, leveraging WeRide's advanced technology, including Robobus and Robotaxi services already operating in the country. The cooperation involves multiple stakeholders, including transport unions and authorities, focusing on pilot programs, regulatory frameworks, and scaling AV solutions in urban settings. WeRide's recognized leadership in autonomous driving technology, highlighted by its inclusion in Fortune Magazine's 2024 “The Future 50” list, positions it as a key partner for Singapore's efforts to develop safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly transport options. This collaboration exemplifies Singapore's ambition to be a global player in autonomous vehicle deployment amid demographic and workforce challenges.