WionDrive News Desk 
Chinese tech giant Baidu has been granted a license to test its Apollo Go robotaxi service in Hong Kong, marking a significant step in its expansion beyond mainland China. The license, issued by Hong Kong’s Transport Department, permits trials of 10 autonomous vehicles in North Lantau starting December 9, 2024, and lasting until December 8, 2029.
Initially, only one self-driving car will operate on designated road sections at a time, with a backup operator onboard to assume control if necessary, according to the department’s statement.
This approval is the first pilot license granted under Hong Kong’s new regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles, which came into effect in March 2023. The Hong Kong government has actively supported autonomous vehicle development since 2017, but trials on public roads have only recently been authorised.
The license also represents Baidu’s first known permission to test autonomous vehicles outside mainland China. The company’s Apollo Go robotaxi service currently operates in several Chinese cities, including Wuhan, where it boasts its largest fleet of over 400 vehicles.
“Apollo Go looks forward to bringing the benefits of AI and autonomous driving technology to more countries and regions,” a Baidu spokesperson said. “This marks an important milestone in our journey towards globalisation.”
The move comes as competition in the autonomous vehicle sector intensifies. Baidu aims to expand its robotaxi services internationally, with plans to launch in markets such as Singapore and the Middle East, in addition to Hong Kong, as reported by The Wall Street Journal last month.
Baidu’s efforts align with Hong Kong’s push to position itself as a hub for autonomous vehicle innovation. By granting Baidu the trial license, the city underscores its commitment to fostering cutting-edge technologies and integrating them into its transportation infrastructure.
As Baidu progresses with its trials in Hong Kong, the project will be closely watched as a benchmark for autonomous vehicle deployment in the region and beyond.
