China’s Pony AI to launch robotaxi service in Europe with Uber, local start-up

Chinese self-driving technology firm Pony AI plans to launch robotaxi services with partners Uber Technologies and Verne in Zagreb, Croatia, spearheading commercialisation of autonomous cabs in Europe amid an accelerated go-global drive.The three companies aimed to operate a fleet of thousands of robotaxis in various European cities over the next few years after achieving consistent performance and safety, Guangzhou-based Pony said on Thursday.Neither the starting date for the service nor the initial fleet size was revealed. Pony said a first batch of robotaxis would be put into operation soon.“In Europe, we see our role as the autonomous driving technology provider and enabler,” said James Peng, Pony’s founder and CEO, in a statement. “Our approach to overseas markets is to work with strong local ecosystems, combining our proven technology with local strengths in operations, market access and regulatory execution.”Under the partnership, Pony will provide its self-driving technology, while ride-hailing firm Uber will integrate the autonomous cab services into its network. Verne, a Croatian robotaxi start-up, will operate as a fleet owner and service operator.According to current standards, robotaxis have level 4 (L4) self-driving capabilities. That means the driverless cabs do not require human intervention in designated areas, according to SAE Inter­national, a global standards body. Some jurisdictions require a person in the driver’s seat for safety reasons.