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WeRide, a global leader in autonomous driving technology, has partnered with Grab, Southeast Asia’s leading super app, to introduce Ai.R (Autonomously Intelligent Ride), Singapore’s first autonomous vehicle (AV) service for consumers. Deploying WeRide’s GXR and Robobus vehicles, Ai.R will operate in Punggol, serving residents along two designated routes. This initiative, selected by Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA), marks a significant milestone in urban transportation for Southeast Asia.
Key Highlights
- First AV Service in Singapore: Ai.R is the only service approved to operate on two routes in Punggol.
- Fleet of 11 Vehicles: Includes five-seater GXRs and eight-seater Robobuses, both certified under Singapore’s Milestone 1 (M1) assessment.
- Safety Operators Onboard: Trained Grab driver-partners ensure safety during the initial phase.
- Route Familiarisation Phase: Vehicles begin navigating Punggol routes this week to adapt to local conditions.
- Passenger Service by 2026: Ai.R will improve access to key amenities like supermarkets, schools, and transport nodes.
Advanced Technology for Safe Navigation
Ai.R vehicles are equipped with advanced cameras and LiDAR sensors, providing 360-degree vision up to 200 meters, even in heavy rain. These systems enable the vehicles to navigate autonomously, detect obstacles, and respond to unexpected hazards. The vehicles adhere strictly to Singapore’s traffic laws, signaling appropriately and avoiding risky maneuvers like rushing through amber lights.
Trained Safety Operators Ensure Reliability
Grab’s AV Safety Operator Training, conducted by GrabAcademy and WeRide, equips driver-partners with skills to oversee Ai.R operations. The program includes theoretical lessons on autonomous systems and hands-on practice with transitions between manual and autonomous modes. Certified operators, like Abdul Rashid Bin Abdul Shukor and Tony Lim, monitor rides to ensure safety and handle emergencies.
Routes Designed for Punggol Residents
Ai.R operates along two fixed routes tailored for Punggol residents:
- West to East Route: Connects Punggol Matilda Court, Punggol Clover, Punggol Plaza, and Oasis Terraces.
- West to North Route: Links Punggol Matilda Court, Punggol Clover, One Punggol, Punggol Northshore, and Punggol Coast Mall.
Passengers can access real-time schedules and track vehicles via the Grab app. All rides include Grab’s Personal Accident Insurance Policy and support from a dedicated AV Customer Support team.
Community Impact and Future Goals
The service aims to enhance connectivity to essential amenities, benefiting residents like Veronica Chong, who frequently visits locations along Ai.R routes. WeRide’s Dr. Kerry Xu highlighted the company’s experience with autonomous vehicles, including Robobuses at Resorts World Sentosa, which has informed Ai.R’s deployment. Alex Hungate, Grab’s President, emphasized the goal of integrating AVs into Singapore’s public transport network for a seamless travel experience.
About WeRide and Grab
WeRide, a publicly traded Robotaxi company, operates in over 30 cities across 11 countries, holding autonomous driving permits in seven markets. Its WeRide One platform supports L2 to L4 autonomous solutions. Grab, founded in 2012, serves over 800 cities in eight Southeast Asian countries, offering mobility, delivery, and financial services to drive economic empowerment.
For more information, visit WeRide’s official website.
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