WeRide Unveils New Production Robotaxi GXR Leveraging 1,800 Days of Operations 

Rhea-AI Summary

WeRide, a leading global company in autonomous driving technologies, has unveiled its latest generation Robotaxi - GXR. This production model is the world's most spacious Robotaxi, leveraging WeRide's 1,800+ days of public operations experience. Key features include:

- L4-level autonomous driving capabilities
- Open-concept spacious design
- New Sensor Suite 5.6 with 360° blind-spot-free perception
- HPC 2.0 high-performance computing platform
- Comprehensive redundancy system for safety
- Impressive dimensions: 5,018mm length, 1,340mm cabin height, 3,100mm wheelbase
- First to eliminate front passenger seat for maximum space efficiency
- Hidden B-pillar design for easy access
- Soft-edged cabin design for enhanced safety

The GXR can be booked through the WeRide Go App, catering to various passenger needs. This launch marks a significant milestone in WeRide's mission to enhance passenger experiences through its international operational expertise.

Positive

• WeRide unveils new production Robotaxi GXR with advanced L4-level autonomous driving capabilities
• GXR features the most spacious design in the Robotaxi industry, potentially attracting more customers
• Comprehensive redundancy system and safety features may reduce operational risks
• WeRide's extensive experience of over 1,800 days in public Robotaxi operations demonstrates market traction
• Expansion of operations to the Middle East shows potential for international growth

Negative

• None.

Insights

Tech Expert

WeRide's unveiling of the GXR Robotaxi marks a significant advancement in autonomous vehicle technology. The integration of Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities with a spacious, passenger-focused design demonstrates a mature approach to commercialization. Key innovations include:

• Sensor Suite 5.6 with 360° perception and 200-meter front detection
• HPC 2.0 high-performance computing platform
• Comprehensive redundancy systems for safety
• Unique interior design maximizing space efficiency

While impressive, the real-world performance and regulatory approval will be important for market success. The elimination of the front passenger seat and hidden B-pillar design are bold moves that could set new industry standards if well-received by consumers. However, the impact on WeRide's business remains to be seen, as widespread adoption and profitability of Robotaxi services are still uncertain in the current market.

Market Research Analyst

The GXR Robotaxi represents WeRide's strategic positioning in the evolving autonomous vehicle market. Key market implications include:

• Potential disruption of traditional ride-hailing services
• Increased competition in the Robotaxi space, particularly in the Middle East where WeRide claims the largest fleet
• Possible partnerships with automotive manufacturers for production scaling

The focus on passenger experience and safety could be a differentiator, but consumer acceptance and regulatory environments will be critical factors. WeRide's 1,800 days of operational experience provides valuable data, potentially giving them an edge in refining their technology and service. However, the path to profitability for Robotaxi services remains unclear and significant capital investments will likely be required before seeing returns. Investors should monitor WeRide's ability to secure partnerships, expand operations and navigate regulatory landscapes across different markets.

GUANGZHOU, China, Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WeRide, the leading global commercial-stage company developing autonomous driving technologies from Level 2 to Level 4, has officially unveiled its latest generation of Robotaxi - GXR, the world's most spacious production Robotaxi model to date.

Leveraging WeRide's extensive experience of over 1,800 days in public Robotaxi operations, GXR integrates WeRide's self-developed L4-level autonomous driving hardwares and softwares, open-concept spacious designs, the new Sensor Suite 5.6, and the HPC 2.0 high-performance computing platform, easily handling peak traffic hours, mixed traffic conditions, and high-speed driving at night.

As a production Robotaxi model, WeRide GXR is equipped with a comprehensive redundancy system, including architecture, F-O steer-by-wire chassis, computing units, and braking systems, preventing single-point failures and ensuring passenger safety. 

The new Sensor Suite 5.6 features an aerodynamic and compact design with over 20 sensors, including high-performance, low-cost LiDAR, high-definition high-dynamic cameras, and an RTK high-precision inertial navigation set, with 360° blind-spot-free perception and 200-meter front detection. 

Spacious

WeRide GXR offers an impressive vehicle length of 5,018mm, an interior cabin height of 1,340mm, and a wheelbase of 3,100mm. It is the first to eliminate the front passenger seat, achieving the highest "space efficiency" in the Robotaxi industry. 

Convenient

GXR introduces the world’s first hidden B-pillar design, allowing the front door and sliding side door to open simultaneously, reaching up to 1,831mm in width and 1,285mm in height, creating an expansive entryway for passengers. A carry-on luggage area is designated to accommodate at least one backpack and one 22-inch suitcase. Passengers can load the luggage and board the vehicle with a single door opening. 

Safe

Safety is WeRide’s top priority. WeRide GXR’s cabin features soft-edged design to provide baby-level safety care. Each door has emergency exit signage, and the center console contains a stop button and a safety hammer for emergency needs. 

WeRide Go App—Ride with Ease 

Once GXR is open to the public, passengers can use the WeRide Go App to select the nearest pickup point and destination to start their GXR journey. GXR can easily accommodate solo business trips, family vacations and friend gatherings.

WeRide has maintained its leadership in the Robotaxi industry and expanded its footprint overseas, operating the largest Robotaxi fleet in the Middle East. WeRide GXR is the latest milestone in WeRide’s mission to enhance passenger experiences through its international operational expertise.

PR@WeRide.ai

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c8ff752b-171d-4043-b7d4-7aab1e01c8fb

FAQ

What are the key features of WeRide's new GXR Robotaxi?

WeRide's GXR Robotaxi features L4-level autonomous driving capabilities, a spacious open-concept design, new Sensor Suite 5.6 with 360° perception, HPC 2.0 computing platform, and a comprehensive redundancy system for safety. It also boasts the largest interior space in the Robotaxi industry.

How does WeRide GXR's design improve passenger experience?

The GXR improves passenger experience through its spacious design, eliminating the front passenger seat for maximum space efficiency. It features a hidden B-pillar design allowing wide door openings, a designated luggage area, and soft-edged cabin design for enhanced safety.

What safety features does the WeRide GXR Robotaxi include?

The GXR includes a comprehensive redundancy system to prevent single-point failures, soft-edged cabin design for passenger safety, emergency exit signage on each door, and a center console with a stop button and safety hammer for emergencies.

How can passengers book a ride in WeRide's GXR Robotaxi?

Passengers can book a ride in WeRide's GXR Robotaxi using the WeRide Go App. The app allows users to select the nearest pickup point and destination to start their GXR journey.