Pony AI Inc. (NASDAQ:PONY) shares are trading higher premarket on Friday after the company launched paid robotaxi services connecting Guangzhou’s city center with Baiyun International Airport and South Railway Station.

The company said it is the first and only approved to operate on these high-demand routes.

Pony.ai’s robotaxi service offers residents and tourists a seamless, autonomous travel option. Riders can book via the PonyPilot App, with fares matching standard Guangzhou taxi rates. 

James Peng, co-founder and CEO of Pony.ai said, “By offering autonomous rides from the heart of the city to key transit hubs, we’re providing practical, real-world services which meet the needs of travellers and city residents alike, solidifying Pony.ai’stus as a global leader in the large-scale commercialization of autonomous mobility.”

Notably, Pony.ai has already launched paid robotaxi services at Beijing Daxing International Airport and Beijing South Railway Station. 

Expanding in Guangzhou's city center and major transit points marks another key step in its autonomous mobility commercialization.

Last month, Pony.ai become the first company in China to secure approval for robotruck platooning tests on cross-provincial highways linking Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei. 

Also, in January, Pony.ai disclosed plans to introduce driverless transportation services at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), one of the world’s busiest airports. 

The company aims to expand its robotaxi services into urban Hong Kong over time. 

Price Action: PONY shares are up 4.47% at $18.68 premarket at the last check Friday.

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