Shenzhen offers a unique opportunity for foreign tourists to ride a free autonomous taxi operated by Pony.ai. The service currently operates in the University Town area, with pick-up points near metro stations. This guide explains how to download the app, book a ride, and what to expect during the experience.
What is Pony.ai and Where Can You Ride It?
Pony.ai is a leading autonomous driving company that provides driverless taxi services in several Chinese cities. In Shenzhen, the service is available in the University Town area (also known as Nanshan District near the Shenzhen University campus). The free ride is part of a promotional period, so availability may change. The route typically starts from a metro station and ends at the residential area of the university campus.
How to Download and Set Up the Pony.ai App
To use the service, you need the Pony.ai app. Follow these steps:
- Download the app from the official app store (iOS or Android). You may need to create a Chinese app store account if the app is not available in your region.
- Register with your phone number. A Chinese phone number is recommended, but some users report success with international numbers. If you don’t have a Chinese number, try using a local SIM card or ask your hotel concierge for help.
- Enable location services and allow the app to access your location for pickup.
- Complete the identity verification if required (usually a simple SMS code).
For more tips on using Chinese apps as a foreigner, check out our guide to riding driverless taxis in China.
Step-by-Step Booking Process
Once the app is set up, booking a ride is straightforward:
- Open the app and tap the “Ride” button.
- Enter your destination (the University Town area). The app will display available pickup points.
- Select a pickup point near a metro station (e.g., University Town Station).
- Confirm the ride. The app will show the estimated arrival time of the autonomous vehicle.
- Wait for the car to arrive. The vehicle will have a “Pony.ai” logo and will be equipped with sensors on the roof.
Note that the service is currently free, but you may need to enter a promotional code if prompted. The app interface is in Chinese, but the booking flow is intuitive.
Pick-up and Drop-off Points in University Town
The designated pick-up points are usually near metro station exits. The route is fixed: from the metro station to the residential area of the university campus. The drop-off point is near the faculty housing or student dormitories. The ride is short, about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Make sure you are at the correct pickup location — the app provides a map and a pin.
What to Expect During the Ride
The autonomous vehicle is a comfortable sedan with a safety driver in the front seat during the promotional phase. The car drives itself but can detect pedestrians and obstacles. In one instance, a pedestrian crossing the road caused the vehicle to brake automatically. The ride is smooth and safe, with a maximum speed of around 40 km/h. You can observe the vehicle’s perception on a screen inside the car. The experience is novel and educational for tech enthusiasts. For more details on safety, read our robotaxi ride experience article.
Is the Free Ride Permanent? Pricing and Alternatives
The free ride is part of a limited-time promotion. Currently, there is no official end date, but it may change. If the free service ends, Pony.ai may introduce paid pricing. For now, it’s a great opportunity to try autonomous driving at no cost. If you are interested in other driverless options in Shenzhen, check out our article on last chance for free driverless car rides.
FAQ
Is Pony.ai free to ride in Shenzhen?
Yes, as of the time of writing, Pony.ai offers free rides in the University Town area as part of a promotional campaign. The service may become paid in the future, so check the app for the latest updates.
How do I book a Pony.ai autonomous taxi?
Download the Pony.ai app, register with your phone number, and select a pickup point in the University Town area. Follow the booking steps in the app. The ride is free during the promotion.
Can foreigners use the Pony.ai app?
Yes, but you may need a Chinese phone number to register. If you have an international number, try it — some users report success. Alternatively, get a local SIM card at the airport or a convenience store.
Is the autonomous taxi safe?
Yes, the vehicle is equipped with multiple sensors and a safety driver is present during the ride. The car can detect pedestrians and obstacles and brake automatically. The service is regulated by local authorities.
What if I can’t find the pickup point?
The app provides a map and a pin. Look for a white sedan with a Pony.ai logo. If you are near University Town metro station, follow the app’s navigation. If you are still lost, contact the app’s customer service (though it may be in Chinese).
Need local help in Shenzhen?
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