Pony.ai, GAC Group launches Aion LX’s level 4 self-driving version

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Chinese self-driving startup Pony.ai and GAC Group jointly launched a level 4 autonomous vehicles based on the platform that creates the Aion LX, an all-electric SUV model launched by GAC New Energy (GAC NE), according to a post on Pony.ai's WeChat account.

(Photo source: Pony.ai's WeChat account)

The level 4 model will be applied in the self-driving pilot project co-operated by both parties, offering the public driverless mobility services, said the Guangzhou-based startup.

The Aion LX, the second model in GAC NE's Aion range, made its debut on August 29, featuring level 3 autonomous driving assistance then. Now, the version with higher level of self-driving applications has come out before it hits the market.

This is an achievement from a deepened cooperation between two companies. In February, 2018, Pony.ai and GAC Group entered into an all-round strategic partnership in fields like production of autonomous driving technologies and vehicles, the self-driving pilot operation, mobility service and capital. Meanwhile, the startup launched its autonomous ride-sharing fleet, becoming the first company in China that offered self-driving car rides on urban roads to the general public.

In late August, 2019, Pony.ai announced its partnership with Toyota on an autonomous driving pilot project as they attempt to speed up the development and deployment of self-driving vehicles.

Both companies would start the pilot operation on public roads this month, using Lexus RX vehicles and Pony.ai's autonomous driving system, according to relevant media outlets.

Founded in 2016, the startup had raised about $300 million as of April, with a valuation of $1.7 billion. In June, it received robotaxi operation permits for California in June.