Pony.ai Makes Bold Moves in Robotaxi Commercialization with ATBB Partnership

Pony.ai Expands Robotaxi Operations Through Partnership with ATBB

Pony.ai, a frontrunner in the global autonomous driving sector, is making headlines with its latest partnership with Beijing ATBB Travel Express Service Co., Ltd., a significant player in China's premium mobility services. This collaboration aims to extend Robotaxi services throughout tier-1 cities, including key urban centers and airports.

Dr. James Peng, the founder and CEO of Pony.ai, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the crucial point of transitioning from merely proving the functionality of autonomous technology to its efficient and sustainable implementation. The partnership involves pooling together expertise, fleet investment, and other resources to effectively bring Robotaxi services to a broader audience while enhancing economic sustainability.

Under the agreement, the two companies plan to create a fleet featuring Pony.ai's newest generation of Robotaxi vehicles, which will operate along crucial transit routes linking airports with high-speed rail stations in major cities like Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shanghai. This approach not only adds capacity to Pony.ai’s existing network but also addresses the diverse travel needs of urban commuters and travelers alike.

The collaboration also extends to integrating Pony.ai's Robotaxi operations with ATBB's existing mobility platform, Xinghui Mobility. This integration will enhance fleet management and demand access, establishing a vibrant and flexible ride-hailing ecosystem that benefits both partners.

One of the enthusiastically anticipated benefits of this partnership is its focus on premium and business travel scenarios. Operating fully driverless, Robotaxis will provide superior services tailored to meet the needs of corporate clients and affluent travelers who prioritize distinctive services. Enhanced privacy along with customizable in-vehicle experiences is expected to be a significant draw.

In recent times, Pony.ai has achieved significant milestones, including the first citywide permit in China for fully driverless Robotaxi operations in Shenzhen, further solidifying its position in the rapidly evolving autonomous driving market. Collectively, Pony.ai's efforts have resulted in the operation of over 1,159 vehicles, surpassing 2025 fleet targets. Plans are already underway to expand this fleet to over 3,000 by the end of 2026, showcasing Pony.ai's commitment to robust growth.

Moreover, the company has confirmed that its seventh-generation Robotaxi operations in Guangzhou have reached a breakeven point in city-wide unit economics, signaling the potential for a scalable model. The company’s asset-light approach, bolstered by partnerships like the one with ATBB, is poised to be pivotal in cultivating a sustainable market presence both domestically and internationally.

As autonomous driving technology continues to mature, Pony.ai remains well-positioned to lead the charge in redefining transportation norms. With this strategic partnership with ATBB, the company is taking definitive steps towards not only enhancing the efficiency of autonomous vehicle services but also ensuring a seamless integration into everyday life for an increasing number of urban dwellers and travelers. The future of mobility is here, and it's driverless.