Chinese autonomous driving firm Pony AI has delivered an initial batch of more than 100 of its seventh-generation robotaxis to ride-hailing operator Chenqi Mobility Technology in Guangzhou.

The vehicles, based on the GAC Aion V model, will join Chenqi’s ride-hailing platform OnTime Mobility and begin commercial operations soon. At the same time, Pony and Chenqi signed an upgraded cooperation agreement in Guangzhou to build a robotaxi fleet and expand geographic coverage beyond current operations, marking a new phase in their long-standing partnership.

Under the upgraded collaboration framework, Pony AI will focus on the research, development and continued iteration of its core autonomous driving technology, the Virtual Driver. Through a technology licensing model, Pony AI will generate recurring revenue by providing its autonomous driving system to fleet partners. Chenqi Mobility will be responsible for fleet asset ownership, safety assurance, vehicle dispatching and platform operations.

By combining Pony’s technology with Chenqi’s mobility platform expertise, the two companies aim to foster a replicable, scalable commercialisation model where both partners generate sustainable returns from fleet operations.

The seventh-generation robotaxis are built entirely with automotive-grade components. The vehicles are designed for a lifespan of up to 600,000km, while the cost of the autonomous driving kit has been reduced by 70% compared with the previous generation.

Generation seven also introduces passenger-focused enhancements, including Bluetooth unlocking, in-vehicle voice interaction, online music and pre-trip climate control. Improved acceleration and braking control help ensure smoother rides and reduce motion discomfort.

Pony AI has already achieved positive unit economics with the robotaxis in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, two of China’s largest tier-one cities, demonstrating commercial viability as the industry moves towards large-scale deployment.

Pony AI (pony.ai) and Chenqi Mobility (www.ruqimobility.com) have built a collaborative foundation over the past several years. Since 2022, the two companies have jointly operated robotaxi services in Guangzhou, accumulating real-world operational experience.

As a growing number of fleet and mobility partners deepen their collaboration with Pony, the company is accelerating the mass production and large-scale commercial deployment of robotaxis, keeping it firmly on track to exceed its 3000 robotaxi vehicle target by the end of 2026.

• Verne (www.letsverne.com), Pony AI and Uber (www.uber.com) have announced a partnership to launch the first commercial robotaxi service in Europe, beginning in Zagreb soon, with initial deployment work already underway, including public-road validation.