ComfortDelGro, Pony.ai Deploy AV Shuttles in Singapore, Spur Smart Mobility Push

ComfortDelGro Launches Autonomous Vehicle Trials in Singapore
Singapore-based transport operator ComfortDelGro has received regulatory approval to begin testing autonomous vehicle (AV) shuttles in the Punggol district. The company will deploy five seven-seater AV shuttles starting in early 2026, marking a key step in Singapore's push toward autonomous mobility. The trials are expected to generate real-world data crucial for refining AV technology in the local context.

The collaboration with Pony.ai, a Chinese self-driving tech firm, is part of ComfortDelGro's global AV strategy. The partnership builds on a sandbox program initiated in Guangzhou earlier this year and aims to adapt the technology for Singapore's unique traffic and infrastructure conditions.

Punggol, Singapore's first residential district to host AV shuttles, is central to the government's five-year plan to integrate autonomous vehicles into the public transport network. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to ease labor shortages in the transport sector and position Singapore as a leader in smart mobility.

Strategic Implications for Pony.ai and Singapore

Pony.ai's CEO James Peng emphasized the symbolic value of Singapore's market despite its small size. He described the deployment as a "planting seed" strategy, where a small fleet can build trust and demonstrate the company's ability to operate in a highly regulated environment. This experience will support Pony.ai's expansion into larger markets such as Japan and the UK.

The AV trials also represent a public-private partnership, with regulators and transport operators working together to establish safety and efficiency benchmarks. Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow highlighted the importance of such collaborations in advancing Singapore's autonomous vehicle ambitions.

ComfortDelGro's AV deployment will be closely watched by competitors like Grab and WeRide, which also received approval to test AV services in Punggol. Grab's AV fleet includes 10 five-seaters and one eight-seater Robobus, while WeRide is focusing on localized AI training through data collection.

Market and Financial Outlook

Pony.ai recently reported a 72% year-over-year revenue increase to $25.4 million for the quarter ending September 30, 2025, driven by growth in robotaxi services and licensing. The company plans to expand its fleet to 3,000 vehicles by the end of 2026, supported by an asset-light strategy that leverages third-party partnerships.

While revenue from Singapore and other international markets may not surge immediately, Peng said these markets could contribute significantly within two to three years. The company is also exploring partnerships in the Middle East and Europe, including collaborations with Uber and Bolt.

Investor sentiment appears positive, given Singapore's supportive regulatory environment and Temasek Holdings' strategic investments in AV firms like WeRide and Pony.ai. The government's 17-member committee, chaired by Siow, is expected to accelerate AV adoption in the coming years.

Regulatory and Technological Challenges

The success of ComfortDelGro's AV trials will depend on navigating Singapore's stringent safety standards and public acceptance. The AV shuttles must adapt to local road conditions, weather patterns, and user behavior through continuous data collection and AI refinement.

Regulators have emphasized a phased rollout, starting with fixed-route services in residential areas before expanding to broader public transport integration. This gradual approach aims to balance innovation with safety, ensuring public confidence in the technology.

Pony.ai and ComfortDelGro's partnership is also a test of cross-border collaboration. The company's experience in mainland China, where it operates in four major cities, will be critical in scaling its services in Singapore and beyond.

Conclusion

The AV trials in Punggol represent a significant milestone in Singapore's journey toward autonomous mobility. ComfortDelGro and Pony.ai's collaboration not only advances their global ambitions but also reinforces Singapore's role as a hub for smart transport innovation. As the technology matures, the city-state's regulatory framework and public-private cooperation could serve as a model for other countries pursuing AV integration.