Pony AI and WeRide granted Robotaxi permits in Shanghai's Pudong New Area

Pony AI and WeRide have received permits to operate commercial robotaxi services in Shanghai's Pudong New Area, according to the companies. The permits were awarded at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC 2025). This development marks a significant step forward for both companies in their pursuit of expanding their autonomous vehicle services in the region.

Two leading autonomous vehicle companies, Pony AI Inc. and WeRide, have secured significant milestones in their pursuit of commercializing self-driving technology in Shanghai's Pudong New Area. Both companies received permits to operate fully driverless robotaxi services at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC 2025) [1].

Pony AI, a global leader in autonomous mobility, was among the first to receive this approval, making it the only company with fully driverless commercial robotaxi service permits in all four of China’s tier-one cities—Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen [1]. The company will launch its services in the core business district of Jinqiao and Huamu before expanding to other regions. This permit signifies Pony AI's technological and operational readiness and solidifies its leadership in advancing autonomous mobility in China [1].

WeRide, in partnership with Chery Group and Jinjiang Taxi, also received a permit to operate Level 4 autonomous robotaxi services in Pudong New Area [2]. This marks WeRide's entry into its tenth city globally, demonstrating its growing presence and capability in the autonomous vehicle market [2]. The partnership will deploy fully driverless ride-hailing robotaxis on public roads, connecting major transport hubs and tourist spots such as the Shanghai World Expo Center, Jinqiao, Huamu, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Shanghai Disney Resort [2].

The permits awarded at WAIC 2025 indicate increasing regulatory trust and recognition in the companies' technology and safety standards. The strategic location of Pudong New Area, home to key financial institutions and high-tech innovation hubs, presents substantial commercial opportunities for both Pony AI and WeRide [1].

References:
[1] https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/07/26/3122075/0/en/PONY-AI-Inc-Among-the-First-to-Receive-Permit-for-Fully-Driverless-Commercial-Robotaxi-Services-Shanghai-s-Pudong-New-Area.html
[2] https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/weride-secures-shanghai-permit-level-4-robotaxi-service