Pony.ai to deploy 200 robotaxis in South Korea by 2028

Chinese autonomous driving company Pony.ai plans to enter the South Korean market by 2028, with an initial deployment of approximately 200 driverless taxis. The company has signed an agreement with local operator FutureLink to facilitate this expansion.

The rollout will utilize Pony.ai’s seventh-generation autonomous driving technology integrated into BAIC vehicle models. The deployment strategy involves starting with 10 vehicles for certification and regulatory approval, followed by an additional 190 units. Operations are expected to begin in Seoul’s Gangnam district test zone.

Under the partnership, FutureLink will manage local licensing, market access, operations, and data storage within South Korea, while Pony.ai provides the core autonomous technology. The companies are also exploring the possibility of a joint venture.

Industry experts in South Korea have raised several considerations regarding the expansion, including the need for technical adaptation to local road conditions, such as high frequencies of two-wheeled vehicles and non-standard lane structures. Key regulatory hurdles include data sovereignty, algorithm transparency, and the establishment of legal frameworks for accident liability and insurance before 2027.