Following Pony AI Inc.’s (NASDAQ: PONY) most recent operational milestone, the company’s shares saw a notable increase. After a remarkable 39.41% spike during regular trading hours, which ended at $7.57, PONY shares surged 13.61% in after-hours trading on Thursday, closing at $8.60.
Strategic Alliance with the Hesai Group
Pony AI has made a significant breakthrough by selecting the AT128 lidar from Hesai Group as the foundation of its autonomous driving technology for its new seventh-generation Robotaxi fleet. Four of Hesai’s long-range, automotive-grade lidar sensors will be installed in each car, demonstrating the vital role that the company’s technology plays in enabling its autonomous capabilities.
At the Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition, Pony AI showcased this relationship when it unveiled the Robotaxi lineup, revealing its alliance with automotive behemoths Toyota, BAIC, and GAC.
Advances in Self-Driving Technology
With a 100% automotive-grade autonomous driving kit (ADK), the company’s seventh-generation autonomous driving system represents a significant advancement. This technology has a lower bill-of-materials (BOM) cost in addition to providing passengers with more stability and safety.
That also includes an 80% reduction in autonomous driving computation (ADC) and a 68% decrease in solid-state LiDAR costs compared to its predecessor. Additionally, the system features a modular platform architecture, making it adaptable across a range of vehicle models—from Robotaxi to future Robotruck services.
Path to Mass-Produced Robotaxis and Future Outlook
Pony AI’s mass-produced Robotaxis are set to launch in 2025, with production supported by three critical strategies: advancing technology readiness, ensuring seamless product integration, and refining operational capabilities.
The company’s ongoing efforts in these areas have positioned it for success, as it aims to deploy autonomous vehicles safely and efficiently. With stringent safety standards surpassing human capabilities, Pony AI’s proprietary PonyWorld system ensures that its vehicles are equipped to handle complex autonomous decision-making.
The launch of the Toyota bZ4X Robotaxi, along with new BAIC and GAC models, highlights the company’s expanding footprint in the autonomous vehicle market, reinforcing its position as a leader in next-generation transportation solutions.
