WeRide, a company specializing in autonomous driving technology, has announced its strategic expansion into Saudi Arabia, aligning seamlessly with its global growth ambitions.
The firm has commenced testing and deploying Robotaxis and essential autonomous products in key cities like Riyadh and AlUla. Also, the company is gearing up for a commercial launch and extensive operations within the Kingdom,
Ground preparation for the upcoming Robotaxi trial operations is already underway, supported by the Transport General Authority, as stated in a announcement.
Read more: Abu Dhabi debuts Middle East’s first fully driverless robotaxi trial service with WeRide
Enhancing last-mile transportation
This service is expected to launch on Uber soon. Comprehensive commercial services are anticipated later this year. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The vision aims to foster smart, sustainable cities. It focuses on enhancing road safety, optimizing traffic management, and introducing innovative mobility solutions.
In addition to Robotaxis, WeRide is actively testing and deploying its Robobus in strategic sites across Saudi Arabia, including King Fahad Medical City and Aramco residential communities. The Level-4 autonomous vehicle is crafted to enhance the travel experience by addressing last-mile transportation gaps, complementing existing transit networks such as the Riyadh Metro. Designed with the region’s hot climate in mind, the Robobus serves a variety of use cases, ranging from parks to large hotels and tourist attractions.
WeRide has also unveiled the Robosweeper S1 in Riyadh at King Fahad Medical City, marking the region’s first monetized autonomous sanitation project. This entry into Saudi Arabia further solidifies WeRide’s expanding footprint in the Middle East.
Earlier this month, the company began fully driverless Robotaxi testing in Abu Dhabi. This is a pioneering achievement for the region. It plans to expand its Robotaxi service to Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands. Both areas have high demand in Abu Dhabi.
Furthermore, WeRide and Uber have expanded their strategic partnership. They plan to introduce Robotaxis to an additional 15 cities globally over the next five years. This includes select locations in Europe and the Middle East.
