Baidu, CAR Inc. Launch China Autonomous Car Rentals

Baidu's autonomous driving division, Apollo, in partnership with CAR Inc., has launched what they claim is the world's first autonomous car rental service available to the public in China. The service uses customized Apollo Go robotaxis built on Baidu's Level 4 autonomous platform, enabling users aged 18 and above to book and operate vehicles entirely via a mobile app. Each vehicle can carry up to three passengers and is available for flexible rental periods from four hours to seven days. Pricing matches CAR Inc.'s standard short-term rental rates. The platform targets a wide audience, including tourists, the elderly, and non-drivers, emphasizing accessibility. This launch marks a major step forward in commercial autonomous mobility in China.