BMW given license to launch ride-hailing service in China

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- BMW Group became the first international carmaker that nabs a license to deploy ride-hailing service in China, confirmed by BMW China's public relation department. It is a prelude for the Germany premium carmaker to launch ride-hailing services in Chengdu from December 14.

BMW Mobility Service Co.,Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the BMW Group founded in April, was given the ride-hailing license from the authority of Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province, BMW said.

It is reported that the automaker will deploy 200 BMW Series 5 sedans in Chengdu during the early days after the mobility service subsidiary starts operation. Those vehicles, including fueling-burning cars and PHEVs, will be allocated exclusive drivers as part of BMW's efforts to offer luxury ride-hailing service.

Traditional car makers are speeding up deployment of ride-hailing businesses in the world's largest automobile market. Earlier this month, SAIC Group announced its ride-hailing service brand dubbed “Xiangdao Chuxing (in Chinese)” that provides an overall solution to the ride-hailing business, including technical platforms, fleet operation, vehicle maintenance and financial credit. Daimler Mobility Services GmbH and Geely Group Company, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group's new business subsidiary, claimed on October 24 that they will build a joint venture in China to provide premium ride-hailing services.

On September 27, Ford Smart Mobility, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ford Motor, and Zotye Automobile Co., Ltd signed the final contract for a 50/50 joint venture which will work on providing tailored intelligent EV mobility solutions for ride-hailing service providers and drivers.