#China #Hong Kong #WeRide #Geely Farizon #Kwoon Chung

Geely Farizon, WeRide, and Kwoon Chung Launch Pioneering Robotic Taxis

At the International Automotive and Supply Chain Expo 2026 held in Hong Kong, Geely Farizon New Energy Commercial Vehicle Group, a leading Chinese manufacturer of new energy vehicles, has solidified its position in the global market by presenting groundbreaking robotic taxis with right-hand steering. This initiative, developed in partnership with WeRide, a frontrunner in autonomous driving technology, and Kwoon Chung Bus Holdings Limited, a major public transport operator in Hong Kong, is set to change the landscape of urban mobility.

Strategic Partnership

During the expo, executives from the three companies signed a strategic cooperation agreement. This pairing of expertise allows for the joint development of an innovative robotic taxi designed specifically for left-side traffic markets, leveraging the established GXR platform. This endeavor not only highlights their commitment to sustainable transportation but also propels Hong Kong into the spotlight as the first city to roll out commercially-available robotic taxis with right-hand steering.

The collaborative efforts aim to foster advancements in vehicle manufacturing, autonomy, and public transportation, thereby paving the way for scalable adoption on a global scale. This collaboration signifies a pivotal moment in the evolution of robotic taxi technology, setting the stage for international expansion.

Hong Kong's Unique Position

As one of the initial markets for this vehicle launch, Hong Kong benefits from its unique transport environment and robust regulatory framework. Already home to trial robotic taxicabs operating with left-hand steering, the territory is poised to become a pioneer in commercializing right-hand steering models. This ambitious project seeks to redefine urban mobility in cities where left-side traffic is the norm, such as Singapore, the UK, Japan, and Australia.

The previous experience garnered from operating left-hand steering models provides a solid foundation for this new venture. Kwoon Chung Smart Mobility, a subsidiary of Kwoon Chung Bus Holdings, has been at the forefront of implementing these initial trials, having already obtained pilot permits for autonomous vehicles to operate on the roads of Hong Kong.

Revolutionary Features

This newly developed robotic taxi model will be distinct from its predecessors, designed from the ground up to meet operational standards for markets with right-hand steering. Instead of merely converting the existing GXR taxi models, the development process will incorporate advanced features, including cutting-edge software for autonomous driving and a reimagined human-machine interface (HMI).

By focusing on environmental perception capabilities, decision-making processes, and chassis control systems, this vehicle aims to guarantee passengers a secure and seamless experience while utilizing autonomous mobility. These improvements will facilitate a smooth transition into a fully autonomous paradigm, aiming to create a new standard in passenger transport.

Future Prospects

The ongoing collaboration between Geely Farizon and WeRide, which saw success with their previously launched GXR robotic taxi in Beijing and Guangzhou within mere months of introduction, serves as a testament to their operational proficiency. Following an agreement for deeper cooperation signed in March this year, further enhancements to the GXR robotic taxi are on track, incorporating an integrated autonomous driving system.

Expectations are high as the product undergoes rigorous road validations and operational trials to adapt to the unique requirements of left-sided traffic markets. The outcome of these efforts will not only solidify Hong Kong's reputation as an innovation hub in autonomous transport but will also serve as a scalable and reproducible business model for future markets.

As they elevate their global ambitions, the partnership among Geely Farizon, WeRide, and Kwoon Chung signifies an exciting leap forward in the field of transportation—one that promises to set new benchmarks for autonomous vehicle deployment worldwide.