#None #Luxembourg #Stellantis #Robotaxi #Pony.ai

Stellantis and Pony.ai Join Forces for Robotaxi Development

In a groundbreaking move to revolutionize urban mobility, Stellantis and Pony.ai have announced a strategic partnership that aims to develop and test SAE Level 4 autonomous vehicles. This collaboration is set against the backdrop of Europe's bustling automotive landscape and promises to integrate Stellantis' AV-Ready Platform with Pony.ai's cutting-edge autonomous driving technology.

The focus of this ambitious project will begin with the deployment of battery-electric medium-sized vans, which are particularly suited for robotaxi applications. By leveraging Stellantis’ established position as a leader in the light commercial vehicle (LCV) sector, this partnership aims to streamline the development of safe and scalable mobility solutions.

The agreement, encapsulated in a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), will see initial real-world testing commence in Luxembourg. This pivotal phase will pave the way for subsequent rollouts across various European cities starting in 2026. Developers aim to ensure the safety, performance, and regulatory compliance of their vehicles throughout the testing process.

Stellantis, renowned for its extensive range of vehicles through its Pro One division, will enable effective scaling of this initiative to meet the diverse demands of European city environments. The robustness, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness of their vehicle lineup—ranging from compact robotaxis to spacious vans accommodating up to eight passengers—position them well for this challenge.

Ned Curic, Stellantis’ Chief Engineering Technology Officer, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “Driverless vehicles have the potential to transform the way people move in our cities, offering safer and more affordable options for communities.” He emphasized the importance of collaborating with industry leaders, highlighting Pony.ai’s technical acumen and commitment to innovation.

Dr. James Peng, CEO and Founder of Pony.ai, echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are delighted to partner with Stellantis to bring our autonomous mobility technology to Europe.” He further noted that Stellantis's strong presence and portfolio of iconic brands make it an ideal ally in accelerating Pony.ai's growth within the European market.

Stellantis’ AV-Ready Platform is specifically designed to support SAE Level 4 autonomy, equipped with advanced safety and reliability features necessary for hands-off, eyes-off operation. While the current focus is on LCVs, this strategic collaboration lays the groundwork for broader applications, potentially extending to a wider array of autonomous mobility services for both passengers and goods alike.

Looking ahead, the partnership represents a commitment to not only harness technological advancements but also to create a sustainable model that benefits urban mobility across Europe. With the blend of Stellantis's extensive manufacturing capabilities and Pony.ai’s innovative technology, the future of robotaxis looks promising, aiming to redefine transportation in urban settings and enhance the overall mobility experience.

By utilizing a diverse portfolio of vehicles and cutting-edge autonomous driving technology, Stellantis and Pony.ai are set to play essential roles in shaping the future of transportation, making daily commuting not just more efficient but also significantly safer for everyone involved.