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Chinese robotaxi firm WeRide gets California approval to test with passengers
- The permit from the California Public Utilities Commission allows WeRide to ferry passengers in test vehicles without a driver
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China-based autonomous driving start-up WeRide has received approval from California to test its driverless vehicles with passengers, according to a permit from the state’s utility regulator.
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The move comes as the company seeks a valuation of as much as US$5 billion from its New York initial public offering even as the US is set to ban vehicles with China-developed systems, according to people briefed on the matter.
The permit from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) – issued earlier this month for three years – allows WeRide to ferry passengers in test vehicles with a driver and without one. WeRide will not be allowed to offer rides to the general public and cannot charge any fares.
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WeRide has 12 active vehicles and will operate in San Jose and nearby areas, CPUC said in a statement to Reuters.
Developing and commercialising robotaxis in the US has been tougher than expected with regulatory hurdles, opposition from city agencies and public outrage.
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