Shenzhen plans to deploy 20 autonomous buses by the end of 2024, as part China’s push for the commercialization of self-driving technology amid safety and job loss concerns. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, together with four other Chinese government departments, has urged this change.
This initiative follows the selection of Shenzhen, along with 19 other cities, for a pilot program aimed at integrating intelligent vehicles with roadside perception and cloud-based control to enhance safety and efficiency. The autonomous buses will operate along four routes in the Qianhai district, an economic zone neighboring Hong Kong, covering key areas such as subway stations, commercial districts and residential zones.
The autonomous minibuses, equipped with high-definition cameras and lidar sensors, will feature a safety supervisor on board to take control in emergencies. The fare during the trial period will be 1 yuan (US$0.14) per ride.
Shenzhen introduced regulations allowing registered AVs to operate on designated roads without safety drivers in 2022.
China’s initiative to deploy AV technology extends beyond Shenzhen. Beijing is supporting the use of AVs for public transportation, while Shanghai is launching autonomous ride hailing services in its Pudong New Area. These efforts, according to the government departments involved, are part of a national strategy to build an intelligent transportation system, supported by recent policies.
The South China Morning Post shared a video detailing Shenzhen’s electric bus service: