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WeRide, a leading autonomous driving company, is expanding globally, with a recent milestone in Europe through a collaboration with beti, Macif, and Renault Group. This partnership has launched the first fully operational high-level autonomous driving shuttles in Europe, aiming to make public transportation safer, more efficient, and more comfortable.
In a recent CNBC interview, CEO Tony Han highlighted how WeRide navigates geopolitical challenges by adhering to local regulations and supporting local economies. Nvidia’s early investment since 2017 reflects confidence in WeRide’s advanced technology. Han also addressed job displacement concerns, noting that autonomous driving tackles driver shortages in aging societies while historically creating new job opportunities. WeRide targets aging societies with high labor costs as key growth markets.
Key Highlights
- European Expansion: WeRide’s collaboration with beti, Macif, and Renault Group marks its entry into Europe. This involves deploying the first fully operational high-level autonomous driving shuttles, enhancing public transportation. Han stated, “if you have ever taken a ride in our autonomous driving bus, it’s like a private cabinet and it’s very comfortable,” emphasizing the technology’s potential to address bus driver shortages in aging societies.
- Geopolitical Strategy: WeRide navigates geopolitical tensions by complying with local regulations and contributing to local societies. Han compared this approach to Thomas Edison’s light bulb, saying it “is not only lighting (up) America but also lighting (up) the rest of the world,” underscoring his vision for global benefit.
- Nvidia’s Support: Nvidia, an early investor since 2017, backs WeRide due to its cutting-edge technology. Han noted that CEO Jensen Huang’s belief in their advancements has fueled their mission to revolutionize transportation.
- Job Impact: Addressing job displacement, Han explained that autonomous driving solves driver shortages in aging societies. He added, “there are always other jobs available,” citing examples like elder care and data labeling, supported by historical shifts from technology adoption.
- Growth Markets: WeRide focuses on aging societies with high labor costs, such as China, the US, UAE, and Singapore, where it holds driverless permits. These regions benefit most from safer, more comfortable transportation solutions.
Expanding the Vision
WeRide’s strategy goes beyond technology deployment. Han views autonomous driving as a way to free humans from tedious tasks, stating, “driving is a tedious job. And it can be a hobby, but it shouldn’t be a task.” This philosophy drives WeRide’s efforts to replace repetitive jobs with machines while fostering new opportunities. The company’s European venture is a blueprint for further expansion into regions like the Middle East and Southeast Asia, where compliance with local laws and societal contributions remain priorities. With Nvidia’s backing and a focus on aging populations, WeRide aims to lead the autonomous driving industry, making transportation a safer and more enjoyable experience worldwide.
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