Pony AI Expands Robotaxi Operations Across Four Chinese Cities

Pony.ai, a Guangzhou-based autonomous driving company, is accelerating its commercial deployment of driverless robotaxis, targeting a fleet of 1,000 vehicles by the end of 2025. It recently became the only operator permitted to run fully driverless robotaxi services in all four of China's tier-one cities, including a significant expansion into Shanghai's central Pudong area, which brings services close to major business districts. The company has solidified partnerships with local and international carmakers and achieved a milestone of 2 million kilometers in road testing, reinforcing its leadership in level 4 autonomous driving technology. Pony.ai's stock has surged in response to these developments, reflecting investor confidence amid competition with rivals such as WeRide and Baidu's Apollo Go. Industry observers note that early investments in AI technology like those by Pony.ai are paying off, distinguishing market leaders from companies facing challenges due to tariffs and economic uncertainty. The robotaxi expansion in Shanghai represents a major step forward in China's autonomous mobility commercialization, with Pony.ai poised to capitalize on growing demand in urban centers.