Baidu to Launch Driverless Ride-Hailing Service Overseas
Baidu, often referred to as the Google of China, is set to introduce its driverless ride-hailing service in international markets in a bid to compete with the lack of autonomous vehicle companies in its home country. The Beijing-based company is looking to deploy its Apollo Go robotaxi service in locations such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Middle East, according to sources familiar with the matter as reported by The Wall Street Journal. While the specific markets for expansion have not been disclosed, Chinese AV companies are facing challenges domestically due to high capital expenditure, intense competition, and decreasing foreign investment.
Expansion Through Partnerships
To facilitate its entry into new markets, Baidu is focusing on forming partnerships in the technology and automotive sectors. The company has already collaborated with Hyundai, Kia, and Nissan to develop connected car technology, indicating that Japan could potentially be another target market for its Apollo Go service. Other countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, known for their ample financial resources and smart city initiatives, have already attracted competitors like Pony.ai and WeRide, as the race to establish a foothold in the autonomous vehicle industry intensifies.
