Baidu Apollo’s ride-hailing service platform Apollo Go has launched a trial operation in Shenzhen’s Nanshan District, providing autonomous robotaxi services to commuters through one of the most densely populated areas in Southern China. Shenzhen is the seventh city where Baidu has introduced its robotaxi ride services in China, following Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Changsha, and Cangzhou.
Users will be able to hail a robotaxi via the Apollo Go app at one of approximately 50 stations, with daily operating hours from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Services will be centered around key downtown spots such as Shenzhen Talent Park, covering surrounding residential areas, commercial areas, entertainment and cultural areas and other high-frequency transport destinations. The service area is set to expand to more than 300 stations by the end of 2022, meeting the ever-growing daily travel needs of Shenzhen residents.
Baidu says that as a hub of innovation for Shenzhen and the wider Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the Nanshan District has a favorable policy environment and a strong road network, providing optimal conditions for the rapid implementation of robotaxi services and the vigorous development of autonomous driving technology.