WeRide and Shenzhen Bus Group Launch Shenzhen's First Fully Driverless Robobus Public Transport Line
Rhea-AI Summary
WeRide (Nasdaq: WRD) and Shenzhen Bus Group have launched Shenzhen's first Level 4 fully driverless Robobus public transport line (B888) in the Luohu District's central business district. The route connects Luohu Port to MixC Market, covering 6.6 km outbound and 4.3 km return, with rides taking 30-35 minutes.
The Robobus features advanced technology including over 20 sensors providing 360-degree perception up to 200 meters. It can navigate complex traffic conditions, read traffic signals, and predict movements of other road users. The system includes full redundancy across all critical components for maximum safety.
This launch represents a significant milestone in Shenzhen's "20+8" industrial cluster strategy and demonstrates WeRide's global expansion, as their Robobuses are already operating in nearly 30 cities worldwide, including major locations in Asia, Middle East, and Europe.
Positive
- Launch of first Level 4 autonomous bus line in Shenzhen's CBD demonstrates technological leadership
- Advanced safety features including full system redundancy and 360-degree perception
- Global presence in nearly 30 cities worldwide shows strong market penetration
- Strategic alignment with Shenzhen's industrial development plans
Negative
- Limited initial route coverage of only 6.6 km outbound and 4.3 km return
- Requires specific booking through WeChat mini program which may limit accessibility
News Market Reaction
On the day this news was published, WRD gained 1.67%, reflecting a mild positive market reaction. Our momentum scanner triggered 3 alerts that day, indicating moderate trading interest and price volatility. This price movement added approximately $43M to the company's valuation, bringing the market cap to $2.63B at that time.
Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.
SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WeRide (Nasdaq: WRD), a global leader in autonomous driving technology, has partnered with Shenzhen Bus Group to launch Shenzhen's first Level 4 fully driverless Robobus public transport line in Luohu District, operating in the busy central business district.
The launch of the B888 line coincides with Shenzhen’s 45th anniversary as China’s first Special Economic Zone, serving as a symbolic “birthday gift” from WeRide and Shenzhen Bus Group.
Running between Luohu Port and MixC Market, rides can be booked via the Shenzhen Bus Travel WeChat mini program. The outbound journey covers 6.6 km and the return 4.3 km, with each ride taking 30–35 minutes. Along the way, passengers pass major commercial and cultural landmarks including Guomao, Di Wang Tower, Shenzhen Grand Theater, and MixC Market, providing international visitors with a first-hand look at China’s advanced autonomous mobility.
WeRide and Shenzhen Bus Group launch Shenzhen’s first Level 4 autonomous Robobus line
As Shenzhen’s first Level 4 autonomous line in the CBD, the B888 Robobus expertly navigates dense traffic with precision. Equipped with over 20 sensors, including LiDAR and HD cameras, it provides 360-degree perception up to 200 meters, accurately reading lane markings, traffic signs, and traffic lights — including occluded, flickering, or newly installed signals — while strictly adhering to traffic regulations.
The Robobus can predict the movements of vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians, adjusting its speed and trajectory accordingly. Even at complex intersections, such as the Jiabin Road and Renmin South Road junction, which can challenge human drivers, it navigates smoothly and easily.
When approaching a stop, the Robobus enters curbside parking mode in advance, adjusting in real time to ensure passengers board and alight safely without disrupting traffic. Full redundancy across sensors, computing units, drive-by-wire chassis, and algorithms ensures backup systems remain active even in extreme situations, maximizing safety.
The B888 Line is a key project in Shenzhen's “20+8” industrial cluster strategy and the city's plan for high-quality development of intelligent connected vehicles, reflecting the city's vision for smart, green, and innovative transport.
WeRide's Robobuses have been tested or operated in nearly 30 cities worldwide, including Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Beijing, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Paris, and Zurich. Looking ahead, WeRide will continue partnering with public transport operators globally to expand autonomous shuttle services across diverse scenarios, from CBDs and residential neighborhoods to tourist attractions, accelerating the adoption of autonomous driving technology and serving more communities.
About WeRide
WeRide is a global leader and a first mover in the autonomous driving industry, as well as the first publicly traded Robotaxi company. Our autonomous vehicles have been tested or operated in over 30 cities across 10 countries. We are also the first and only technology company whose products have received autonomous driving permits in six markets: China, Singapore, France, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and the US. Empowered by the smart, versatile, cost-effective, and highly adaptable WeRide One platform, WeRide provides autonomous driving products and services from L2 to L4, addressing transportation needs in the mobility, logistics, and sanitation industries. WeRide was named in Fortune Magazine’s 2024 “The Future 50” list.
Media Contact
pr@weride.ai
Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains statements that may constitute “forward-looking” statements pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “likely to,” and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about WeRide’s beliefs, plans, and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in WeRide’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this Report is as of the date of this Report. WeRide does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c7cec049-151f-425f-9469-5ba54bc4f82b
FAQ
What is WeRide's new autonomous bus route B888 in Shenzhen?
What safety features does WeRide's autonomous Robobus include?
How many cities does WeRide operate its Robobuses in?
How can passengers book WeRide's autonomous bus service in Shenzhen?
What landmarks does WeRide's B888 autonomous bus route pass in Shenzhen?
