China’s Baidu is taking a bold step onto the global stage, preparing to introduce its Apollo Go autonomous ride-hailing service to Europe and Turkey. This move positions Baidu among the leading Chinese self-driving technology firms aiming to expand their international presence amid intensifying competition in the sector.
Testing Begins in Switzerland, with Eyes on Turkey
According to a person familiar with the discussions, Baidu is currently negotiating with PostAuto, a division of Swiss Post, to pilot its Apollo Go robotaxi service in Switzerland. Initial testing is slated to begin by the end of this year, setting the stage for a broader launch if successful.
Turkey is also on Baidu’s radar for future Apollo Go deployment, though details remain under wraps. The company’s efforts in these regions reflect a wider ambition to scale its self-driving technology beyond China’s borders.
China’s Robotaxi Giants Accelerate International Expansion
Baidu joins a growing cohort of Chinese autonomous vehicle companies ramping up overseas operations. Notably, WeRide, a U.S.-listed peer, has established a presence in over 30 cities across 10 countries, including the UAE, France, and Singapore. Uber, the global ride-hailing leader, has also partnered with WeRide, Pony, and Momenta to roll out robotaxi services in markets such as the UAE and Europe.
For Baidu, Apollo Go is already a familiar name on Chinese streets, operating in major cities like Beijing, Guangzhou, and Wuhan. Its vast robotaxi fleet ranks among the largest in the country.
Challenges and Reactions in the Domestic Market
Baidu’s domestic operations have not been without controversy. In Wuhan, for example, Apollo Go has faced criticism from local taxi drivers and residents, many of whom are concerned about job displacement as self-driving vehicles take a larger share of urban transport.
Despite these challenges, Baidu maintains that its autonomous technology represents a safer and more efficient future for urban mobility, highlighting Apollo Go’s operational record in some of China’s most complex driving environments.
The Global Robotaxi Race Heats Up
With Baidu’s announcement, the battle for international leadership in autonomous ride-hailing is entering a new phase. As Chinese firms make rapid inroads into overseas markets and global players like Uber forge partnerships with leading tech innovators, the next chapter of urban mobility is being written on a worldwide scale.
As Baidu prepares to test Apollo Go in Switzerland and eyes new markets like Turkey, the world’s roads are about to become a testing ground for the future of self-driving transport.
