China’s self-driving vehicle ambitions are motoring towards significant legal and financial roadblocks, experts say
- Robotaxi tests in some major cities are a cautious step towards China’s connected and intelligent driving ambitions but obstacles remain
- Autonomous vehicle sector faces legal and cost uncertainties even though many experts see large-scale adoption in the long term
In select areas of Shenzhen, the southern tech hub linking Hong Kong to China’s mainland, Beijing’s futuristic vision of an “intelligent connected” road system is taking shape, with “self-driving” taxis now commonplace. But, experts question whether a driverless roadway is an imminent reality.
Some of the taxis are operated by Baidu’s Apollo Go robotaxi service and can be hailed easily by prospective passengers through a mobile app. The rides have been free or heavily discounted since the launch began last year.
Thomas Chen, who lives in the Nanshan district of Shenzhen, enjoys taking Apollo Go robotaxis to get to and from his local grocery store.
“The ride itself is generally quite smooth except for some sudden brakes from time to time,” he said. However, he added that it was hard to find available taxis amid growing demand.
“I hope they expand their fleet and their operation area soon.”