Your Guide to Riding a Pony.ai Robotaxi in Shenzhen as a Foreign Tourist

Shenzhen is one of the few cities where foreign tourists can experience a fully driverless robotaxi. Pony.ai operates a ride-hailing service without a human driver, letting you enjoy a private, futuristic ride. This guide walks you through how to download the app, pay, and what to expect inside the autonomous vehicle.

What Is Pony.ai and How Does Robotaxi Work in Shenzhen?

Pony.ai is a leading autonomous driving company that offers a driverless ride-hailing service in designated areas of Shenzhen. Unlike standard taxis, there is no human driver — the car drives itself using sensors, cameras, and AI software. Foreign visitors can experience this technology firsthand by booking a ride through the Pony.ai app. The service is part of Shenzhen’s push to become a global hub for smart mobility, and many predict that driverless taxis will become widespread by the end of the year.

Step-by-Step: How Foreign Tourists Can Book a Driverless Ride

Booking a Pony.ai robotaxi is straightforward, but requires a few initial steps. Follow this guide to get started:

• Download the Pony.ai app from the official iOS App Store or Android app store. The app interface is available in English.
• Register with a phone number. A mainland Chinese number is recommended, but some foreign numbers may work. Alternatively, you can use an account linked to Alipay or WeChat.
• Set your pickup and drop-off locations within the service area. The app will show available zones.
• Confirm your ride. The robotaxi will arrive at the pickup point, and you can unlock the door via the app.
• Ensure you follow safety instructions: do not sit in the driver’s seat, and keep seatbelts fastened.

Payment and Account Setup: Phone Number, Alipay, WeChat Pay

Payment for the robotaxi ride is handled through the app. Foreign tourists can link their Alipay or WeChat Pay accounts for a seamless transaction. If you don’t have these, a credit card (Visa/Mastercard) may be accepted, but it’s best to set up Alipay beforehand. The app may also require a Chinese phone number for SMS verification. Some users have reported success with international numbers, but having a local SIM card is more reliable. For more detailed guidance, check out our article on robotaxi payment methods.

What the Ride Feels Like: Inside the Robotaxi

Once inside, the robotaxi operates autonomously. The cabin is clean and quiet, with no driver to distract you. Passengers often enjoy the privacy — you can sing, talk on the phone, or even wave to pedestrians without feeling awkward. The car’s interior screens display the route and the vehicle’s perception of the surroundings. It’s a unique experience that blends technology with everyday transport. For a deeper look, read about another traveler’s experience.

Common Drawbacks: Hard Braking, Honking, and Screen Interference

While the ride is generally smooth, there are a few downsides to be aware of:

• Hard braking: The AI may brake abruptly when it detects sudden obstacles, which can be jarring.
• Honking from other drivers: Human drivers sometimes honk at the robotaxi, especially in mixed traffic.
• Screen interference: If the front seat is adjusted too far back, it may hit the rear screen, causing a clunking sound.
• Conservative driving: The robotaxi might hesitate at intersections or take longer to merge.

Despite these minor issues, the overall experience is safe and exciting.

Tips for a Smooth First Robotaxi Experience in Shenzhen

To make the most of your robotaxi ride, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose a pickup location with clear road markings and no heavy traffic for easier autonomous navigation.
• Charge your phone before the ride — you’ll want to take photos and videos.
• Be patient with the AI. The car may drive cautiously, but that’s a safety feature.
• If you have luggage, check the trunk space beforehand; some robotaxis have limited storage.
• Ride during the day for a better view of the technology in action.