#Zagreb #Croatia #Robotaxi #Pony.ai

Pony.ai Expands Global Reach with Launch of Robotaxi Service in Zagreb

Pony.ai Inc., a prominent player in the field of autonomous driving technology, has made a landmark move by launching Europe's first commercial robotaxi service in Zagreb, Croatia. This service, powered by a partnership with Verne and Uber, has opened its doors to the public, allowing people to book rides seamlessly through the Verne app. Soon, integration with the Uber app will follow, enhancing the convenience for users.

The service covers key areas of Zagreb and operates daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM. It initially spans around 90 square kilometers, including essential spots like Zagreb Airport. This launch is more than just a technical achievement; it symbolizes a significant milestone in Pony.ai's dual-engine growth strategy, targeting both domestic and international markets.

Dr. James Peng, the founder and CEO of Pony.ai, expressed enthusiasm about this launch, highlighting it as a validation of their Gen-7 robotaxi capabilities. He stated that this service marks a dedicated step towards expanding autonomous mobility globally, asserting that they are committed to bringing safe and reliable autonomous transport to users worldwide.

Moreover, this service has reflected Pony.ai's adaptability in handling diverse regulatory frameworks. The efficiency of their joint-deployment model allows them to provide proven robotaxi platforms while collaborating closely with regional partners like Verne, who manage local operations and regulatory compliance.

Marko Pejković, Verne's Co-Founder and CEO, celebrated this launch as a historic moment, stating that for the first time in Europe, a commercial robotaxi service allows real autonomous rides. He emphasized the determination of their team to bring this project to fruition in 2026.

With this robotaxi service, Pony.ai demonstrates not just their technological prowess but also its robust business model. They aim to grow their fleet significantly, with aspirations to have over 3,000 vehicles operational by the end of the year.

Pony.ai has a history of pushing the boundaries in autonomous mobility, leveraging their innovative Virtual Driver technology, which integrates their software, hardware, and services into a cohesive autonomous driving solution. Founded in 2016, they have expanded their influence across various markets including China, Europe, and East Asia, thereby ensuring accessible and advanced technology reaches a broader audience.

As the world moves towards a future shaped by autonomous mobility, Pony.ai's launch in Zagreb is a clear signal of the company’s commitment to innovation and collaboration towards achieving a scalable model of robotaxi services. The company’s focus on making autonomous driving both commercially viable and convenient sets the stage for a transportation revolution in Europe and beyond.

The ambition to scale robotaxi operations is evident as Pony.ai continues navigating through expansions while maintaining their commitment to sustaining a reliable and comprehensive transportation solution. It seems that with every mile traveled, Pony.ai is paving the way for what the future of urban mobility might look like.