WeRide Inc. and Grab began public operations of the Ai.R (Autonomously Intelligent Ride) service in Singapore’s Punggol district on April 1 2026, marking the city’s first autonomous passenger service within a residential estate.
The Ai.R fleet, composed of WeRide’s GXR robotaxis, has already logged 30,000 km of autonomous mileage. The service is free for a public trial period that will end in mid‑2026, after which a flat fee of $4 per ride will apply. Fourteen Grab driver‑partners have completed specialized training to become Safety Operators, and additional partners are undergoing remote operator training at the Ai.R Operations Command Centre.
The launch demonstrates WeRide’s ability to replicate its Level 4 autonomous platform in a new market and provides a data‑rich environment that will accelerate algorithm development. It also supports WeRide’s dual flywheel strategy of improving both robotaxi and L2++ ADAS performance, while expanding Grab’s mobility portfolio and addressing driver shortages in the region.
The initiative includes a significant workforce development component: Grab driver‑partners are being upskilled into Safety Operators and Remote Operators through GrabAcademy and WeRide’s training programs. This aligns with Singapore’s national agenda to address manpower constraints and an aging population by creating new roles in the autonomous mobility ecosystem.
Competitive context shows that Pony.ai is also conducting robotaxi road tests in Punggol and ComfortDelGro is testing self‑driving shuttles. Singapore’s safety‑first regulatory approach makes the city a leading testbed for autonomous vehicles, intensifying competition while providing a supportive environment for innovation.
"We are building a future where technology and the community move forward together," said Alejandro Osorio, Managing Director of Grab Singapore. "Upskilling our driver‑partners is a key part of that vision." Dr. Kerry Xu, General Manager of Singapore at WeRide, added, "Our GXR vehicles have proven performance in other markets, and we are committed to delivering safe, reliable urban mobility here." Tony Han, Founder and CEO of WeRide, noted, "Southeast Asia is a core growth market where dense cities, progressive regulators, and strong partners like Grab enable scaled commercial operations."
The content on EveryTicker is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.