Chinese autonomous vehicle (AV) company WeRide received approval from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to test its driverless vehicles by transporting passengers in the state.
It comes at a crucial time as the company prepares for a US stock market debut, and is still facing regulatory hurdles.
WeRide’s US expansion
As of August 2, 2024, WeRide holds dual permits from the CPUC – for both drivered and driverless pilot permits. This means the company can test vehicles on public roads while transporting passengers.
The tests will be conducted in San Jose and surrounding areas, with 12 active vehicles currently on its equipment list.
Despite regulatory concerns, WeRide is in the process of going public on the US stock market at a valuation of nearly $5 billion. Meanwhile, the US Commerce Department is considering a ban on Chinese connected vehicles.
From China to California
WeRide has been testing its driverless vehicles (without passengers) since 2021. The California rollout has been slow compared to other AV companies.
WeRide’s vehicles drove 42,391 miles (68,221 km) autonomously in the state during 2023. Its competitor, Waymo, logged over 9 million autonomous miles (14,4 million km).
This is because WeRide’s CPUC permit limits it to vehicles seating fewer than 16 people, including the driver. This could also be related to the company’s diverse vehicle types, which include a robotaxi and a robobus.
Global reach and future plans
WeRide claims to be the first autonomous driving company operating and testing in 30 cities across seven countries. It holds permits to drive autonomously on public roads in China, Singapore, the UAE, and the US.
Apart from its robotaxi and robobus, the company is also developing a goods delivery van, a robotic street sweeper, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
As WeRide advances its testing and prepares for its US. stock market debut, it will need to navigate potential regulatory challenges and differentiate itself in the competitive AV market.
Image source: WeRide
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About the author
Cheryl has contributed to various international publications, with a fervor for data and technology. She explores the intersection of emerging tech trends with logistics, focusing on how digital innovations are reshaping industries on a global scale. When she's not dissecting the latest developments in AI-driven innovation and digital solutions, Cheryl can be found gaming, kickboxing, or navigating the novel niches of consumer gadgetry.
