Baidu’s Apollo Go Robotaxis May Hit Malaysia, Singapore Roads in 2025

Baidu plans to launch its Apollo Go robotaxies in Malaysia and Singapore this year as part of its international expansion strategy. The company is collaborating with local partners to establish business models while aiming to capitalize on the growing global demand for autonomous vehicles.

Baidu is gearing up to launch its Apollo Go robotaxi operations in Malaysia and Singapore, possibly as soon as this year. According to Bloomberg, this expansion is part of the Chinese tech firm’s strategy to broaden its global presence beyond its home turf in China. Individuals familiar with the plans have noted that discussions are currently in progress with potential local partners to explore suitable business models for both Malaysian and Singaporean markets.

Baidu’s Chief Executive, Robin Li, has previously expressed that the company is looking for collaborations with mobility service providers, local taxi companies, and third-party fleet operators, preferring an “asset-light approach” for these operations. This strategy signifies Baidu’s intent to minimize investments in vehicle ownership while leveraging local expertise.

The company’s expansion coincides with increasing activity in the global autonomous vehicle sector. Tesla is expected to showcase its Cybercab robotaxi network in the coming days. CEO Elon Musk is betting heavily on autonomous driving technology as a key factor for future growth, which adds a competitive edge to the rapidly evolving landscape of self-driving services.

Baidu’s Apollo Go joins WeRide and Pony.ai as a significant player among Chinese robotaxi enterprises actively attempting to penetrate Middle Eastern, European, and Southeast Asian markets. Since its inception, the Apollo Go service has deployed over 1,000 autonomous vehicles predominantly in China and reportedly completed 11 million rides by the first quarter in 2025, surpassing its American counterpart Waymo, which reported 10 million paid rides as of May.

Apart from its regional ambitions in Southeast Asia, Baidu is mapping out new opportunities in Europe and Turkey. Talks are already underway with PostAuto, a subsidiary of the Swiss Post, about the potential introduction of robotaxis in Switzerland. However, the company has not yet released any formal statements regarding its strategy for the Southeast Asian markets.

As Baidu pushes forward with plans to roll out its Apollo Go robotaxis in Malaysia and Singapore, the company’s strategy reflects a broader ambition to expand internationally. With ongoing negotiations for local partnerships and operating frameworks, Baidu is set to enhance its competitive stance in the burgeoning sector of autonomous vehicles. The timeline for this launch is particularly noteworthy amid escalating developments from competitors such as Tesla and the growing interest in robotaxi services across various regions.

Original Source: www.malaymail.com