WeRide Chosen as Tech Provider for Swiss Autonomous Driving Pilot Project

WeRide Chosen as Technology Supplier for Switzerland's Autonomous Driving Pilot



WeRide Inc. (NASDAQ: WRD) has made headlines as it steps into the spotlight of innovation by becoming the technology provider for a groundbreaking pilot project focused on autonomous driving in Switzerland. This initiative has been carefully supported by the Canton of Zurich alongside the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and is being managed by the Swiss Transit Lab (STL). The choice underscores WeRide's global leadership in autonomous driving technology, particularly in Level 4 autonomy, which is designed to operate under specific conditions without human intervention.

The pilot project is set to officially launch in the second quarter of 2025. Initially, two autonomous vehicles equipped with WeRide's cutting-edge technology will be deployed, with plans to scale this to four vehicles as the system matures. This fully autonomous operation is planned to run for a generous five years, during which WeRide aims to expand its fleet by adding an additional eight vehicles by 2026, along with introducing further enhancements in future phases.

Focusing on the Furttal region, the first automated vehicles will be available for local residents through an easy-to-use app developed by ioki. This app will allow users to book rides in these autonomous vehicles, significantly improving transportation accessibility in suburban areas that have typically suffered from limited options.

Tony Han, the CEO and founder of WeRide, emphasized the significance of this project, stating, "The launch of the pilot public transport service in Switzerland reflects WeRide's commitment to expanding autonomous driving solutions across Europe. Our technology has shown exceptional adaptability across various scenarios—from major sporting events to airport operations and public transport services."

What's remarkable about this initiative is its timing and relevance to the Swiss transportation landscape. The Swiss public transportation system is heavily reliant on trains, with an impressive average of 70 train journeys per year per resident, making it one of the highest rates in Europe, as reported by the Federal Office of Transport (OFT). However, for those living in suburban areas, choices can be quite limited, making this project even more essential.

The project is also noteworthy as SBB, which has been around since 1902 and operates a network of around 3,000 kilometers across Switzerland, joins the efforts as one of the investors. The Canton of Zurich, a significant local region, is the second major investor in this endeavour. STL is taking charge of managing the project by exploring and promoting innovative mobility solutions. By leveraging WeRide's autonomous driving technology, the collaboration aims to pave the way for a smarter transportation network in Switzerland.

The pilot project marks the third initiative undertaken by WeRide in Europe within a mere eight months. The company recently launched the first commercial autonomous minibus service at Zurich Airport and provided Level 4 autonomous transport services during the 2024 French Open held in Paris.

This ongoing push for a sustainable and efficient transportation infrastructure not only showcases the versatility of WeRide's autonomous driving platform, WeRide One, but also highlights growing interest and investment in European autonomous driving technologies. As the region looks toward the future of transportation, WeRide stands at the forefront, ready to enhance mobility through innovation and technology.

In conclusion, as this ambitious project gears up for launch, it offers a glimpse into the exciting potential of autonomous transportation to reshape local travel, making it more accessible and efficient for everyone in Switzerland. The residents of Zurich and beyond will soon experience a transformative shift in how they commute, powered by cutting-edge technology and visionary collaboration.

Topics Auto & Transportation)

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