In autonomous and self-driving vehicle news are WeRide, DeepRoute.ai and Pony.ai.
WeRide Powers Switzerland’s Autonomous Driving Pilot with L4 Technology
WeRide Inc. (NASDAQ: WRD), a global leader in autonomous driving, is the technology provider for a groundbreaking autonomous driving pilot project in Switzerland. Funded by the Canton of Zurich and Swiss national railway SBB, and managed by the Swiss Transit Lab (STL), the project highlights WeRide’s advanced L4 autonomous driving technology and operational expertise.
Initially, two autonomous vehicles equipped with WeRide technology will operate in Switzerland’s Furttal Region, with expansion to four vehicles by mid-2024. The fleet will operate in fully unmanned mode for up to five years, with plans to grow to 12 vehicles by 2026. Residents will use an app by ioki to book rides.
This marks WeRide’s third European project within eight months, following autonomous minibus operations at Zurich Airport and shuttle services at the 2024 French Open in Paris. The initiative addresses limited transportation options in suburban Switzerland, enhancing connectivity in a region heavily reliant on rail transit.
WeRide CEO Tony Han emphasized the company’s dedication to providing adaptable autonomous solutions for diverse scenarios. The project underscores the growing European interest in WeRide’s versatile WeRide One platform, bolstering the advancement of intelligent transportation networks.
DeepRoute.ai and Smart Partner to Advance Intelligent Driving Technology
AI company DeepRoute.ai has announced a strategic partnership with premium auto brand Smart to develop and implement advanced intelligent driving solutions. The collaboration focuses on deploying end-to-end models capable of navigating complex driving scenarios, such as parking, roundabouts, and missing lane markings, to deliver safer and smarter autonomous driving experiences.
DeepRoute.ai’s technology, already integrated into over 30,000 vehicles within four months, is projected to expand to 200,000 vehicles this year, covering more than ten models. The partnership will enhance algorithm training and validation for global deployment.
Yang Jun, Global CTO of Smart, emphasized the collaboration’s role in advancing AI-driven innovation and providing effortless driving experiences. Maxwell Zhou, CEO of DeepRoute.ai, highlighted the importance of accelerating the development and global testing of intelligent driving technologies, positioning both companies as leaders in the AI era.
DeepRoute.ai continues to pioneer production-ready smart driving solutions, aiming to revolutionize autonomous mobility through scalable deployment.
STRADVISION Launches Data Management Workflow to Accelerate SVNet 3D Perception Network Production
STRADVISION has announced the successful deployment of its Data Management Workflow, aimed at supporting the mass production of its SVNet 3D Perception Network. Unveiled at CES® 2025, the advanced system integrates end-to-end automation for data collection, processing, labeling, and cost management, transitioning operations to the cloud for enhanced data quality and efficiency.
The workflow focuses on handling large-scale 3D data, including LiDAR and multi-camera datasets, essential for autonomous driving and ADAS. Key components of the system include automated data pipelines, a web-based labeling tool, and settlement automation, which streamline data processing and improve labeling quality. This innovative solution accelerates the commercialization of autonomous driving technology and strengthens STRADVISION’s leadership in the industry.
Pony.ai Becomes First in China to Receive Approval for Robotruck Platooning on Cross-Provincial Highways
Pony.ai has become the first company in China to receive approval for robotruck platooning tests on cross-provincial highways, connecting Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei Province. This approval allows the company to operate platoons with only the lead truck requiring a safety operator, while following trucks drive autonomously. Pony.ai plans to begin tests on the Beijing-Tianjin-Tanggu Expressway as part of its roadmap to achieve full autonomy for all trucks in platoons. Since launching its cross-provincial freight service, Pony.ai has completed over 45,000 kilometers and is a leader in L4 autonomous trucking in North China, with ambitions to drive down logistics costs and further commercialize autonomous trucks.
Traffic Safety Expert Warns of Hazards Posed by Self-Driving Cars
Amy Witherite, a traffic safety expert, warns that self-driving cars and trucks continue to present significant safety risks. From incidents involving Waymo robotaxis failing to yield at crosswalks to autonomous vehicles getting confused in emergency situations and construction zones, Witherite emphasizes that unproven technology is being tested on public roads. She argues for stronger government regulation and oversight, citing numerous reports of dangerous interactions and malfunctions, such as vehicles driving in circles or failing to stop for pedestrians. Witherite calls for accountability to prevent further harm to public safety.