Didi launches fully autonomous taxi service in Guangzhou

A Didi self-driving taxi can now be booked in Guangzhou / Photo: Techinasia.com, photo editor: Dastan Shanay

A pilot self-driving taxi project has been launched by Didi Autonomous Driving in Guangzhou, China, a city with a population of 18 million. The company has introduced the service in key areas of the Huangpu district in eastern Guangzhou, offering customers the ability to call an unmanned taxi. According to Pandaily, the new test stage marks a milestone in the development of autonomous transport in China.

The robotaxi service became operational on Dec. 1, 2025. The trial zone covers the busiest locations, including subway stations, schools, malls, business centers, and residential communities. The project operates around the clock, seven days a week, and is completely unmanned, without even a safety driver.

Robotaxi in the Didi app / Pandaily.com

When booking a ride, Didi’s app analyzes the route, surrounding conditions, dispatch distance, and demand to offer the optimal vehicle and route. The app allows users to choose between unmanned and traditional taxis.

The service launch marks the continuation of Didi’s participation in the 15th National Games of China, during which robotaxis transported participants and guests across the central sports zones.

The new pilot project reflects the company’s readiness for commercial-scale autonomous transportation. The test zone in Guangzhou will serve as a testing ground for ensuring stable service operation under high passenger traffic conditions.

Previously, Kursiv Cars covered the robotaxi project in Japan, launched with the participation of Nissan Motor. A similar service is planned for testing in Kazakhstan in 2027.