WeRide, a leader in autonomous driving technology, has received official approval to begin commercial operations of its latest-generation robotaxi, the GXR, in Beijing. This marks a significant milestone as the GXR becomes WeRide’s second robotaxi model to operate completely driverless in Beijing. It is also the company’s first large-scale deployment of the GXR in China, following its debut in Abu Dhabi in December 2023 on the Uber platform.
The service area for the GXR spans several key regions within the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area. This includes important locations such as high-speed railway stations and highways, allowing the robotaxi to offer seamless connectivity across the city. Additionally, the GXR is now approved to operate on highways, including routes leading to and from Beijing Daxing International Airport. This broad operational zone ensures that the GXR can cater to a wide range of passenger needs, from urban commutes to longer-distance travel.
WeRide’s rapid progress in the autonomous driving sector is evident in the short time it took to move from product launch to fully unmanned commercial operations. The company launched the GXR on October 15, 2024, and in just over four months, it has achieved fully driverless operations. This fast-paced progression showcases the company’s commitment to the commercialization of autonomous driving technology, earning it the nickname “WeRide speed.”
Dr. Tony Han, founder and CEO of WeRide, described the launch as a groundbreaking achievement, not just for the company, but for the entire autonomous driving industry. “The commercial launch of Robotaxi GXR in Beijing represents a pivotal achievement for WeRide and the autonomous driving industry as a whole,” Dr. Han said. He emphasized the rapid deployment from product introduction to fully unmanned services, reinforcing that autonomous technology is now ready to meet transportation needs at scale. He also highlighted that with this expansion, WeRide continues to set the benchmark for autonomous mobility, making self-driving technology more accessible for passengers worldwide.
The GXR is the culmination of over five years of research and development in the robotaxi space. Equipped with L4-level autonomous driving capabilities, the GXR is designed to operate completely without a driver in public road environments. Its innovative architecture, including a redundant drive-by-wire chassis and the world’s first hidden B-pillar, prioritizes both passenger safety and comfort. With an open mobile travel space, the GXR can comfortably accommodate up to five passengers, ensuring a spacious and pleasant ride. These features reflect WeRide’s ongoing dedication to creating a safe, efficient, and enjoyable autonomous driving experience.
As the GXR begins its commercial operations in Beijing, it signals a new era for autonomous transportation in China and beyond. The vehicle’s success demonstrates that fully autonomous robotaxis are no longer a futuristic concept, but a tangible reality. With its ability to operate on both urban roads and highways, including crucial routes to airports, the GXR offers a glimpse into the future of mobility—a future where self-driving vehicles are integrated seamlessly into everyday transportation networks.
WeRide’s successful launch of the GXR robotaxi sets the stage for further expansion and innovation in the autonomous vehicle industry, positioning the company as a key player in the global race to develop fully autonomous transportation solutions.
