China’s Baidu eyes robotaxi expansion to Singapore, Malaysia
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Apollo Go is in discussions with potential partners to explore the right business models for the two markets.
PHOTO: ST FILE
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Hong Kong – Baidu is planning to launch its Apollo Go robotaxi service in Singapore and Malaysia as early as 2025, according to a person familiar with the matter, as the company continues to expand its global footprint.
Apollo Go is in discussions with potential partners to explore the right business models for the two markets, said the person, who asked not to be identified.
Baidu chief executive officer Robin Li has previously said it was seeking partners such as mobility service providers, local taxi companies and third-party fleet operators for an asset-light approach.
The development comes as Tesla prepares to launch its Cybercab robotaxi network in the United States within days, with Mr Elon Musk staking the electric car maker’s future growth on autonomous driving technology.
Chinese robotaxi companies including Apollo Go and US-listed Weride and Pony AI are expanding into international markets such as the Middle East, Europe and South-east Asia.
Apollo Go is fast scaling up. It has deployed more than 1,000 self-driving vehicles worldwide, most of which are in China.
Apollo Go reached 11 million rides by the first quarter of 2025, surpassing Alphabet’s autonomous driving unit Waymo’s 10 million paid rides as at May 23.
The Baidu unit is also exploring entering Europe and Turkey, and was in talks with Swiss Post unit PostAuto to roll out a robotaxi service in Switzerland. BLOOMBERG
