WeRide Expands Robotaxi Services in Beijing After Securing Key Permit

WeRide Corp (NASDAQ: WRD) has received approval to launch commercial robotaxi services in Beijing, marking a significant milestone in its autonomous ride-hailing expansion.

The newly granted permit allows WeRide to operate self-driving taxis between the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area (BDA) and Beijing South Railway Station, one of China’s busiest transit hubs with over 150,000 daily passengers. Customers can now book rides using the “WeRide Go” app.

WeRide’s autonomous taxis are designed to handle Beijing’s complex traffic, ensuring seamless transportation in high-density areas. This approval strengthens the company’s position in the rapidly evolving autonomous mobility sector.

Shares of WeRide closed 1.7% higher at $16.58 on Wednesday before the announcement. The company, which operates in nearly 10 cities worldwide, continues to push the commercialization of its self-driving technology. In December, WeRide partnered with Uber Technologies (NYSE: UBER) to roll out the largest robotaxi fleet in the Middle East, further solidifying its global footprint.

Looking ahead, WeRide aims to expand its autonomous services in Beijing, targeting key locations such as airports and major transit centers. The company’s continuous advancements in AI-driven mobility position it as a leading player in the global autonomous vehicle market.