Alibaba-backed autonomous tech startup AutoX is preparing to initiate real world traffic tests in four more cities, using FCA’s Chrysler Pacifica minivan as the vehicle of choice.
The company is also in talks with prospective investors to fund a fleet expansion, its CEO, Xiao Jianxiong told Reuters. Back in July, AutoX became only the second firm after Alphabet’s Waymo to test a self-driving car on California’s public roads without a safety driver behind the wheel.
AutoX, who offers robotaxi services in one of Shanghai’s districts, now plans to build up test fleets in Beijing, western Chonqqing and two other cities, said Xiao.
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“Chongqing brings new challenges as a hilly city,” said Xiao during an interview, while adding that AutoX will soon begin testing cars in China without a safety driver in the front, as they have in California.
The startup is aiming for a so-called Level 4 autonomous driving standard, meaning that the car is able to handle all aspects of driving in most circumstances without the need for a human user to intervene.
The previously-mentioned Chrysler Pacifica is the latest AutoX vehicle fitted with their tech. This minivan is also a model often favored by Waymo. However, AutoX’s sensor layout differs from Waymo’s in order to better suit China’s infrastructure, where certain areas cannot accommodate tall vehicles, said Xiao.
AutoX’s main competition in China includes Pony.ai (backed by Toyota) as well as WeRide, which is backed not only by Nissan and Renault, but also internet search giant Baidu.
