Key facts
- Baidu's AmiGo autonomous vehicle service has gained regulatory approval in Switzerland.
- The service is a joint venture with PostBus, Switzerland's public bus operator.
- Operations are planned for eastern Switzerland, with fully driverless services targeted for early 2027.
- This initiative aims to be Europe's largest automated public transport operation.
- The service will use electric RT6 vehicles accessible via a dedicated app.
Baidu's autonomous vehicle service, AmiGo, has received regulatory approval to operate in eastern Switzerland, marking a significant step for the company's global expansion in self-driving technology. Developed in partnership with PostBus, Switzerland's public bus operator, the joint venture aims to launch Europe's largest automated public transport operation.
Full driverless services are anticipated by early 2027, contingent on meeting all safety and regulatory requirements. The initiative will deploy Baidu's electric RT6 vehicles, which are designed to carry three passengers and are equipped with more than 30 sensors, enabling Level 4 autonomous driving under specific conditions. Customers will be able to book rides through a dedicated AmiGo app.
This partnership, announced last year, underscores Baidu's strategic focus on AI and self-driving technologies as its traditional search engine business faces headwinds from a weakening Chinese economy.