Chinese tech company Baidu is set to sell robotaxi rides without human staff. Baidu CEO Robin Li sees a tipping point for driverless tech, with companies like Xpeng and Nvidia also optimistic. The global robotaxi market could reach $25 billion by 2030, with Chinese firms aiming for profitability.

Baidu’s Apollo Go unit in Wuhan has achieved profitability per vehicle, with cheaper fares than Beijing or Shanghai. Baidu is also producing electric robotaxi vehicles independently. Scalability is key for profitability, with plans to expand globally. U.S. rivals Waymo, Tesla, and Zoox are also expanding.

Pony.ai plans to launch 1,000 robotaxis in the Middle East by 2028, while WeRide aims for a fleet of 1,000 in the region by next year. Apollo Go operates around 100 robotaxis in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, planning to double its fleet. Scale and safety are crucial for profitability in the competitive driverless tech market. AI sensors are improving road safety with more data from trips. Mass adoption of robotaxis remains uncertain. Pony.ai leads in regulatory approval in Shenzhen. Safety record of operators in China is good, with no fatalities reported. Beijing expected to increase support for self-driving taxis. Potential for tens of thousands of robotaxis on China’s roads by 2026.

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