Pony.ai Delivers Over 100 Gen7 Robotaxis to Ruqi Mobility, Launching Hybrid Operations

On March 19, Pony.ai delivered to Ruqi Mobility the first batch of over 100 GAC Aion “Bawanglong” Robotaxis equipped with its seventh-generation autonomous driving system. These vehicles have already been integrated into Ruqi Mobility’s platform and have commenced mixed operations—combining human-driven ride-hailing services and Robotaxis—in cities including Guangzhou. The two companies also signed a strategic cooperation agreement to further expand their Robotaxi fleet. Under this partnership, Pony.ai will focus on developing its “virtual driver” technology and monetize it through a usage-fee model, while Ruqi Mobility will manage asset ownership, safety, vehicle dispatching, and platform operations. The new Robotaxis feature fully automotive-grade components, with a designed service life of up to 600,000 kilometers. The cost of the autonomous driving hardware suite has been reduced by 70% compared to the previous generation. Additional comfort-enhancing features include Bluetooth unlocking, voice interaction, and pre-conditioned climate control. Currently, these Robotaxis have achieved per-vehicle profitability in Guangzhou and Shenzhen. By March 2026, Ruqi Mobility plans to operate approximately 600 Robotaxis across the Greater Bay Area, covering Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hengqin, and other locations.