Self-driving taxis hit Guangzhou streets with airport and train station routes

Guangzhou has launched its first self-driving taxi service connecting downtown areas with major transport hubs, offering rides at prices lower than regular ride-hailing options. Starting February 21, residents and tourists can book autonomous vehicles, known as Robotaxis, via an app to travel between the city center, Baiyun International Airport, and Guangzhou South Railway Station.  

Four routes are now available: round trips between Garden Hotel and Baiyun Airport, Canton Tower and Guangzhou South Railway Station, Zhujiang New Town (Xiancun Metro Station) and Guangzhou South Railway Station, as well as Zhujiang New Town and Baiyun Airport. Operating hours are 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM daily.  

During a test ride, the vehicle maintained speeds up to 120 km/h on clear highways while adjusting its strategy for traffic and safety. In busy urban areas, it cautiously avoided pedestrians, stayed within lanes, and used hazard lights when pulling over. Each car still has a safety driver in the front seat to take control if needed. "This is a necessary step during the initial phase," said a staff member, adding that fully driverless operations—already tested in Nansha District—could follow.  

A ride from downtown to the airport costs around 76.6 yuan (all-inclusive), slightly cheaper than standard ride-hailing services during the same times, according to trial bookings. Users can reserve trips via Pony.ai's app (小马智行) under the "Airport Transfer" (接送机) or "Train Station" (火车站) options.  

The service marks Guangzhou's latest push to integrate self-driving technology into daily transport. "This demonstrates Guangzhou's commitment to advancing autonomous driving policies," said Dai Dunfeng, Head of PR for Pony.ai China. The company's sixth-generation Toyota Sienna vehicles, approved for city and highway use, aim to expand cross-city services in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area soon.  

Guangzhou plans to gradually permit mixed traffic of human-driven and autonomous vehicles citywide by 2025 under new local regulations, supporting smart transport innovations across roads, airports, and railways.