SAIC AI LAB's autonomous taxis drive in a line on the road. [Photo/WeChat account: shlgguanweihui]

SAIC AI LAB – a division of giant automaker SAIC Motor Corp Ltd's SAIC Motor R&D Innovation Headquarters – announced on July 24 that its driverless taxis (robotaxis), which recently received a demonstration application permit, will be available to the public in August.

On July 4, Shanghai officially issued the first permits for driverless vehicle applications to four companies. A total of 20 robotaxis were approved for routes connecting Jinqiao and Lin-gang Special Area.

Residents will soon be able to book these L4-level robotaxis through online platforms. During the demonstration phase, all rides will be free. L4 technology allows for fully autonomous driving, but a safety operator will still be present in the initial stages.

Additionally, SAIC AI LAB will also be launching a route connecting Lin-gang Special Area to Shanghai Pudong International Airport in August, using 20 certified L3-level robotaxis.

Conditional automation, or L3-level autonomous driving, is when the vehicle drives itself but still has a safety operator in the driver's seat to assist if necessary.

This route will connect the airport to 53 operation points in Lin-gang, including tourist attractions, hospitals, and hotels. For the first three months, rides along this route will also be free.

SAIC AI LAB operates autonomous taxis in Lin-gang, with 45 vehicles currently in service. Residents can already hail these taxis in Lin-gang's main urban area, Nanhui New City.