Baidu’s Bold Move in Driverless Vehicles: How AI and Partnerships Are Powering the Future of Autonomous Mobility

Baidu is redefining the future of transportation with its aggressive push into autonomous driving. With strategic partnerships, cost-efficient robotaxis, and global expansion plans, the Chinese tech giant is positioning itself as a leader in the driverless vehicle industry. But what makes Baidu's approach unique, and how will it shape the mobility landscape?

Baidu’s Vision for Autonomous Driving

Baidu's journey in autonomous driving began in 2013, but it took a major leap in 2017 with the launch of Apollo, its open-source autonomous driving platform. Apollo has since evolved into one of the world's most advanced self-driving ecosystems, attracting partners like BMW, Ford, and Intel.

Unlike other AV companies that focus on private car automation, Baidu is going all-in on autonomous ride-hailing through Apollo Go, its driverless robotaxi service. With a growing fleet and a bold expansion strategy, Baidu is aiming to become the "Waymo of China"—but at a fraction of the cost.

The Game-Changing Partnership with CATL

On February 27, 2025, Baidu announced a strategic partnership with CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited), the world’s leading EV battery manufacturer. The goal? To develop cost-effective, battery-powered autonomous vehicles.

What this partnership means for Baidu:

✅ Integration of CATL’s battery and energy solutions into Baidu’s robotaxis.

✅ Faster deployment of battery-swapping technology to reduce downtime.

✅ Improved efficiency and competitiveness in the global self-driving car market.

This collaboration gives Baidu an edge over competitors like Tesla and Waymo by focusing on both AI-driven automation and battery innovation.

(Source: Reuters)

Apollo Go: The Rise of China’s Largest Robotaxi Fleet

Apollo Go is already China’s largest driverless taxi network, operating in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Wuhan. In Wuhan alone, Baidu has over 400 robotaxis, with plans to expand to 1,000 by the end of the year.

Apollo RT6, Baidu's Next-Gen AV. Source: Baidu

With millions of completed rides, Apollo Go has proven its reliability and scalability. The company’s sixth-generation robotaxi, the RT6, is a game-changer in affordability, with production costs under $30,000—far cheaper than most competitors.

Why Apollo Go is a game-changer:

🚗 Fully autonomous fleet with no safety driver required in approved zones.

💰 Lower production costs mean cheaper rides for customers.

🌍 Plans to expand outside China, starting with Hong Kong, Dubai, and Singapore.

(Source: The Verge)

Baidu Goes Global: Expansion Beyond China

Baidu isn't stopping at China—it’s going global. The company has already secured a license to test Apollo Go in Hong Kong, making it the first Chinese autonomous vehicle company to operate outside mainland China.

Additionally, Baidu is in talks to launch robotaxi services in Dubai, a market that has openly welcomed self-driving technology. With its low-cost production and AI-powered efficiency, Baidu could disrupt the global AV market faster than many Western competitors.