Baidu Rolls Out Driverless Ride-Hailing in Dubai, Faces China Glitches
Baidu’s Apollo Go launched a fully driverless commercial ride-hailing service in Dubai via its app, partnering with Dubai Taxi Company and targeting a fleet of over 1,000 autonomous vehicles. Earlier the same day, several Apollo Go robotaxis in Wuhan halted mid-ride due to system glitches, prompting safety concerns.
1. Fully Driverless Service Debut in Dubai
Baidu’s Apollo Go platform has launched a fully driverless commercial ride-hailing service in Dubai via its mobile app, marking its first international app deployment in partnership with the Roads and Transport Authority and Dubai Taxi Company to support local operations.
2. 1,000-Vehicle Deployment Target and Hub Setup
This launch advances Apollo Go’s March 2025 plan to field over 1,000 autonomous vehicles in Dubai over the coming years and follows the opening of the Apollo Go Park operational hub earlier this year to manage overseas fleets.
3. Wuhan Robotaxis Halted by System Glitch
Earlier on the same day, several Apollo Go robotaxis in Wuhan suddenly stopped mid-ride due to a system-triggered safety check, stranding passengers without injuries but stoking questions about the technology’s reliability and safety protocols.