Baidu will set up in Zurich to launch its robotaxis in Europe

The Chinese technological group sees potential in the peripheral regions for its driver -free vehicles. Therefore,

The Chinese technological group Baidu will set up in Zurich to launch vehicles without driver in Europe. Nevertheless, announces the European manager of the intelligent Driving Group in Baidu. Moreover, For Switzerland, it sees potential in peripheral regions.

But no Robotaxi should circulate in the city of Zurich. Moreover, specifies Yong Gessner in an interview broadcast on Monday by the newspaper Neue Zürcher Zeitung. Consequently, The group does not want to be present where there is already an offer, he notes. “We want to complete the existing offer”.

The offer will depend on the partner company and its wishes, continues Mr. Gessner, stressing that the objective is to cooperate with an established partner. “We cannot cite names”. According to the Wall Street Journal, Carpostal, the baidu will set up zurich La Poste subsidiary, is the partner in Switzerland of Baidu. The Chinese group is in discussion with several potential partners, the manager laconically replies.

The exact date of the launch of the service also depends on the partners. he adds, adding that the company provides that vehicles will circulate in Switzerland and Europe from 2026. “At the beginning, there will be drivers” to ensure security, he continues.

Vehicles specially designed by Baidu for the operation of Robotaxis under the Apollo Go brand is already circulating on. the roads of several Chinese cities.

The Chinese company has chosen Switzerland as an entry point for the European market. in particular due to the stability of the country, notes Mr. Gessner. And Zurich is the European Center for Artificial Intelligence (AI), he notes. With the proximity of the Federal Polytechnic School (EPFZ). the University, “Zurich is one of the most attractive sites in baidu will set up zurich the world for the best talents”.

The manager does not indicate the number of employees engaged in Zurich. “We want to start small and grow regularly”.