"Singapore is fast-tracking autonomous vehicles with Pony.ai and WeRide leading the charge. Here’s how their partnerships with ComfortDelGro and Grab are reshaping urban transport."
Why is Singapore betting big on autonomous vehicles?
Singapore’s transport system is undergoing a massive shift. Two Chinese tech giants, Pony.ai and WeRide, are now at the center of the city-state’s bold autonomous vehicle (AV) strategy. Backed by strong local partnerships and government support, these companies are preparing to roll out driverless services in residential and business zones. The goal? Smarter, safer, and more efficient urban mobility.
Pony.ai and ComfortDelGro: What’s the plan?
Pony.ai, known for its global AV expertise, has teamed up with ComfortDelGro, Singapore’s largest transport operator. Their first target is Punggol, where autonomous taxis and shuttles will run fixed routes in residential neighborhoods. This follows their success in Guangzhou and a 2024 partnership agreement.
- The services are awaiting final regulatory approval.
- They aim to solve “first-mile, last-mile” transport challenges in housing estates.
- Pony.ai has clocked more than 50 million km in global AV driving experience, giving it a strong safety record.
WeRide and Grab: What’s new in Punggol?
Meanwhile, WeRide has joined hands with Grab to launch Ai.R Singapore’s first consumer-facing autonomous shuttle service. Their pilot in Punggol includes 11 AVs on two routes, featuring both five-seater and eight-seater models.
- The shuttles passed rigorous safety checks from the Land Transport Authority (LTA).
- For now, Safety Operators (trained drivers) will accompany rides.
- A full public launch is expected in early 2026.
Grab’s investment and technical support are key to scaling up WeRide’s AV fleet in Singapore.
How is Singapore supporting AVs?
The government’s long-term AV roadmap is clear: reduce congestion, improve accessibility for elderly and disabled riders, and meet sustainability goals. Expansion in 2025 includes:
| Zone | Focus |
|---|---|
| Jurong Lake District | Driverless buses |
| Punggol | Shuttles + smart traffic systems |
| Changi Business Park | Autonomous taxis for office commutes |
By 2030, Singapore expects AVs to become part of everyday life in public transport and business districts.
Market impact and outlook
The Southeast Asian AV market is already valued at $21.5 billion in 2025. With Pony.ai and WeRide competing head-to-head, Singapore is set to become a regional hub for autonomous mobility.
- AVs could help solve driver shortages, especially during off-peak hours.
- Pony.ai is expanding into the Middle East and Europe, while WeRide is doubling down on Southeast Asia.
- The competition will likely accelerate innovation and improve passenger options.
FAQs
When will Singaporeans see driverless shuttles on the road?
Pilot routes in Punggol are already running with Safety Operators. A full public launch is expected in early 2026.
Which companies are leading the AV push in Singapore?
Pony.ai (partnered with ComfortDelGro) and WeRide (partnered with Grab) are the frontrunners.
What is Singapore’s long-term AV vision?
By 2030, AVs will be integrated into public transport networks and business districts, improving urban mobility for all residents.
