WeRide and Uber to Launch Swiss Robotaxi Service in Greater Zurich
Autonomous driving technology firm WeRide, alongside Uber, is gearing up to introduce a commercial robotaxi service in the Greater Zurich Region later this year, marking their first Swiss deployment.
The initiative will be accessible through the Uber app, in partnership with Switzerland’s Federal Roads Office (FEDRO) and pending regulatory approval. This marks WeRide’s first European venture in Spain, which took place just weeks prior.
Annelles WeRide International CFO and head Jennifer Li emphasized the strategic focus on Europe, highlighting the speed of their expansion plans across new markets.
“WeRide International CFO and head Jennifer Li said: ‘Europe is a priority region for WeRide, and announcing two European markets in two weeks reflects the speed and efficiency of our expansion strategy.'”
The rollout aligns with WeRide’s broader ambitions, building on partnerships in Madrid, Spain.
Local mobile operator Rydera will manage the day-to-day operations of the fleet, supporting WeRide’s asset-light business model. As operational targets are achieved, the fleet is expected to expand incrementally.
“WeRide secured a driverless permit from FEDRO in November 2024, authorizing autonomous vehicles to operate on public roads in the Furttal region of Zurich.”
Local stakeholders anticipate automation will increase in everyday urban environments by 2026.
The companies are also exploring plans for fully driverless operations in major metropolitan areas.
WeRide will draw on the WeRide One universal technology platform and GENESIS simulation platform to drive this new initiative.
“Local operator Rydera will handle day-to-day fleet management under WeRide’s asset-light model, with the fleet size expected to grow incrementally as operational targets are met.”
“WeRide, Uber plan Swiss robotaxi debut in Greater Zurich” was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand.
