Gasgoo Munich-Baidu's autonomous ride-hailing platform, Apollo Go, has secured an L4 operational permit in Switzerland. The authorization covers an 80-square-kilometer area spanning the cantons of St. Gallen, Appenzell Ausserrhoden, and Appenzell Innerrhoden. It marks the first time Chinese autonomous driving technology has secured a scaled commercial operating license in Europe.
Image source: Apollo Go
Apollo Go is set to partner with Swiss Post's bus operator, PostBus, to roll out autonomous taxi services under the AmiGo brand. Road testing began on June 1, with all vehicles currently staffed by safety drivers to ensure safety. Once testing concludes, AmiGo will launch a limited pilot operation, with full commercial services expected to open to the public by 2027.
Baidu's sixth-generation autonomous vehicle, the Apollo RT6, serves as the technological backbone for the initiative. Unveiled in 2022, the all-electric model can carry up to three passengers and is equipped with more than 30 sensors. It integrates Baidu's proprietary in-vehicle computing platform, offering redundancy in perception and decision-making. The design also allows for the steering wheel to be removed, paving the way for the interior to be reconfigured as a dedicated passenger space once fully driverless operations begin.
Swiss officials noted that the decision to operate in the Alpine region aims to leverage the area's complex terrain and volatile climate to create an extreme testing environment, thereby enhancing the system's robustness. PostBus's CEO added that the partnership helps drive the transition toward smart public transport while expanding mobility options for residents in remote areas.
