WeRide Launches Autonomous Shuttle Bus at Zurich Airport, Expanding European Reach

WeRide Expands European Presence with Robobus in Zurich

WeRide Inc. (NASDAQ: WRD), a prominent player in autonomous driving technology, has officially launched its Robobus service at Zurich Airport. This groundbreaking initiative, implemented in collaboration with Flughafen Zürich AG and Swiss Transit Lab (STL), marks a pivotal moment in advanced mobility solutions at an important European aviation hub. Following earlier successful operations at the Roland-Garros tournament in Paris, this new addition further cements WeRide’s commitment to advancing autonomous transportation in Europe.

The Robobus, which accommodates up to nine passengers, is set to be the first commercial autonomous shuttle bus in a European airport. It will operate a dedicated route that links the airport's employee entrance at Gate 101 with the maintenance area at Gate 130. The service is scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2025, emphasizing the efficiency and safety of autonomous transportation for airport staff.

This development follows a broader collaborative approach by Flughafen Zürich AG, which is also engaging with airports in Brussels and Amsterdam to trial similar autonomous vehicle technologies. Before the operational test of the Robobus began, WeRide's Robotaxi had successfully mapped its routes within Zurich Airport, showcasing the versatility of WeRide’s technology across various Swiss locations.

Zurich Airport, nestled at the foot of the Alps, presents its own unique challenges for autonomous vehicle technology due to its diverse climate and complex operational environment. However, WeRide has demonstrated its capability to manage these challenges, leveraging its extensive expertise and technological advancements to provide a reliable solution.

The Zurich airport initiative builds on the successful implementation of Robobus in Paris, where it efficiently provided transport for attendees during an extended route of five kilometers, in partnership with Renault Group focused on public transport solutions with lower carbon emissions.

WeRide’s advanced autonomous driving technology has undergone rigorous testing in over 30 cities across seven countries, ensuring a robust and dependable operational framework. Initially, the service will include a safety driver onboard to guarantee compliance with all legal and safety requirements in place at Zurich Airport. Future plans involve transitioning towards a remote monitoring operation.

Flughafen Zürich AG has assured that WeRide's technology meets all current legal and safety standards specific to airport operations while adhering to strict data protection requirements. Collaboration with Swiss Transit Lab will ensure seamless service operation as deployments expand.

In conclusion, the introduction of Robobus at Zurich Airport is a testament to WeRide’s commitment to connecting the dots in the realm of autonomous mobility and providing innovative solutions that enhance transport efficiency in bustling environments.

With advancements in autonomous technology, the prospects for improving mobility services are not only promising but essential for future transportation needs, making WeRide a front-runner in this new age of smart travel.