News, 15 January 2025
Due to national security concerns, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced a final rule that would prohibit the import or sale of connected automobiles from Russia and China. Additionally, the rule would prohibit Chinese automakers WeRide and Pony AI from testing autonomous vehicles on American roadways.
The 2027 model year will see software bans, while the 2029 model year will have hardware prohibitions. According to the agency, as long as a Chinese company does not have access to the software, the prohibitions would not apply to Chinese software created prior to the new regulations going into force.
Additionally, vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds are exempt from the final rule, meaning China’s BYD may keep building electric buses in California.
Only a few Chinese autonomous car startups now have authorization to test in California. WeRide and Apollo Autonomous Driving, both owned by Baidu, are authorized to test autonomous vehicles without safety drivers. Recently introduced to the public markets, Pony AI is authorized to conduct safety driver testing. Pony mentioned in its IPO documents that the impending prohibition would make it somewhat difficult for the firm to continue its very limited robotaxi testing in the United States, stating that those operations accounted for “less than 1% of [its] total revenues in 2023 and the six months ended June 30, 2024.”
In the past, a California Department of Motor Vehicles representative told TechCrunch that the department will enforce restrictions on Chinese connected vehicle technologies in the same way as the Commerce Department. With the announcement of the final decision, TechCrunch has inquired as to whether the DMV will cancel those permits.
About WeRide
WeRide is a prominent Chinese technology company specializing in autonomous driving solutions. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Guangzhou, WeRide focuses on creating advanced self-driving systems that leverage artificial intelligence, machine learning, and high-definition mapping technologies to enhance vehicle autonomy.
The company’s flagship offering includes its self-driving platform, which has undergone extensive testing in various urban environments. WeRide aims to revolutionize the transportation industry by providing safe and efficient autonomous ride-hailing services. As part of its development, WeRide has partnered with various automotive manufacturers to integrate its technology into commercial vehicles and has also initiated pilot programs in select cities.
WeRide is actively contributing to the broader discussion on smart cities and the integration of autonomous vehicles into urban landscapes, highlighting the potential for reduced traffic congestion and improved road safety through the adoption of its technology. With a strong focus on innovation and safety, WeRide is positioned as a key player in the rapidly evolving autonomous vehicle sector.
About Pony AI
Pony.ai is an autonomous driving technology company founded in 2016, with headquarters in both Silicon Valley, California, and Guangzhou, China. The company specializes in developing self-driving vehicle solutions and aims to create a safe and efficient autonomous transportation ecosystem.
Pony.ai has made significant advancements in autonomous vehicle technology, utilizing artificial intelligence, machine learning, and sophisticated sensor systems, including lidar and cameras, to enable its vehicles to navigate complex urban environments. The company has successfully conducted numerous road tests and pilot programs in both the U.S. and China, demonstrating its capabilities in a variety of driving conditions.
In addition to its focus on autonomous ride-hailing services, Pony.ai has also partnered with major automotive manufacturers, such as Toyota, to scale its technology and incorporate it into commercial vehicles. Pony.ai aims to address critical challenges in urban mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance road safety through its innovative solutions. The company is one of the leaders in the autonomous driving industry, contributing to the ongoing evolution of transportation technologies worldwide.
