Pony.ai delivers 100-plus Gen-7 robotaxis to Chenqi Mobility

Pony.ai has delivered an initial batch of more than 100 seventh-generation (Gen-7) robotaxis to Guangzhou Chenqi Mobility Technology, marking a new phase in a partnership that began in 2022. The vehicles, based on the GAC Aion V model, will operate on Chenqi’s OnTime Mobility ride-hailing platform, with the two companies also signing an expanded strategic cooperation agreement to grow the fleet and extend geographic coverage.

Under the revised framework, Pony.ai will license its Virtual Driver autonomous driving system to fleet partners on a recurring revenue basis, while Chenqi Mobility takes responsibility for vehicle ownership, safety assurance and platform operations. Pony.ai says the model is designed to be replicable and scalable, enabling both partners to generate returns from fleet operations.

The Gen-7 platform is built entirely from automotive-grade components and is rated for a lifespan of up to 600,000 kilometres. Pony.ai says the cost of the autonomous driving kit has been reduced by 70% compared with the previous generation. Passenger features include Bluetooth unlocking, in-vehicle voice interaction and pre-trip climate control.

Pony.ai says it has achieved positive unit economics with Gen-7 robotaxis in Guangzhou and Shenzhen and remains on track to exceed a target of 3,000 robotaxi vehicles in commercial operation by the end of 2026.

Source: Pony.ai