#Spain #Barcelona #WeRide #Renault Group #Autonomous Robobus

WeRide and Renault Group's Revolutionary Trials in Barcelona

WeRide Inc. (Nasdaq: WRD), a leader in autonomous driving technology, has joined forces with the Renault Group to introduce the first trial of an autonomous robobus in Spain. Scheduled from March 10 to March 14, 2025, the trial will take place in the heart of Barcelona, where participants will have the unique opportunity to experience this cutting-edge transportation solution for free.

A Groundbreaking Initiative

This collaborative effort marks a significant milestone in demonstrating the capabilities and maturity of autonomous technologies, particularly in dense urban environments. The primary aim is to show how automated traffic systems can contribute to modern mobility, making it more agile, flexible, eco-friendly, and affordable for European cities striving for climate neutrality and environmental zones.

Tony Han, the founder and CEO of WeRide, emphasized the importance of this trial: "This test in Barcelona is a critical moment in WeRide’s international expansion strategy, showcasing our technological leadership beyond Asian markets and into the heart of Europe." With the autonomous Level 4 vehicle, the partners aim to navigate Barcelona's complex urban landscape under real traffic conditions, proving not only the technology's maturity but also its adaptability to various global environments.

The initiative continues from previous experiments conducted during the renowned French tennis tournament, Roland-Garros, in 2024. WeRide's visionary approach aims to make intelligent and sustainable mobility solutions accessible worldwide.

Technological Features of the Robobus

During the testing phase, which operates from 10 AM to 5 PM, the robobus will cover a designated route of over 2 kilometers. It will feature four convenient stops for passengers to embark and disembark. This setup is designed to allow riders to discover autonomous driving safely and easily while enjoying a scenic tour of Barcelona.

The pilot has received all necessary permissions from the Barcelona city government and the General Directorate of Traffic. Participants will not only experience a novel mode of transport but also witness the potential future of smart, sustainable urban mobility.

European Expansion Plans

Last month, WeRide also announced the launch of its first fully driverless commercial robobus service in Europe, through a partnership with Beti, Renault Group, and Macif. This initiative will provide an automated mobility service classified as Level L4 in the French Dôme region. Furthermore, WeRide recently introduced its first commercial autonomous shuttle project at Zurich Airport, partnering with the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) for a pilot project on autonomous driving.

Overall, the collaboration between WeRide and the Renault Group is not merely about testing a vehicle; it's about pioneering a new era of transportation. As cities worldwide face the challenge of adapting their transit systems to be more environmentally friendly and efficient, this trial showcases practical steps towards that goal.

In conclusion, the WeRide and Renault robobus trial in Barcelona isn’t just about autonomous vehicles; it symbolizes a future where innovation meets the demand for sustainable urban transport, setting a precedent for other cities around the globe. The coming weeks will surely provide valuable insights into how autonomous vehicles can seamlessly integrate into everyday life, shaping the future of public transportation.