WeRide and Grab have launched Singapore's first public autonomous vehicle service within a residential area, making the Ai.R service available in Punggol. This launch follows a successful trial period, allowing residents to experience the future of urban transportation firsthand. The initiative marks a significant step in integrating advanced mobility solutions into the daily lives of the community.
A Milestone in Urban Mobility
The public launch follows a rigorous community engagement phase that began in January 2026, involving over 1,000 early riders. During this trial, the fleet of WeRide's GXR and Robobus models accumulated over 30,000 kilometers of autonomous mileage. Feedback gathered from Punggol residents and community leaders was instrumental in refining the service for its official debut.
Integrating Technology and Community
Alejandro Osorio of Grab Singapore emphasized that the service aims to build a future where technology and community advance together. Dr. Kerry Xu from WeRide highlighted the company's technological readiness and commitment to enhancing urban mobility in the region. Both leaders underscored the collaborative effort to create a more seamless and sustainable transport ecosystem for the nation.
WeRide brings extensive global experience to the partnership, with its autonomous vehicles already operating commercially in China, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. The company aims to replicate this proven record of safe and reliable on-demand transport in Singapore. This deployment is being conducted in close coordination with local authorities to ensure a smooth and secure integration into the city-state's transport network.
Creating New Career Pathways
A key focus of the initiative is preparing the existing workforce for an autonomous future by creating new career opportunities. Grab's driver-partners are being upskilled for roles such as Safety Operators, who are present in the vehicles during the initial public phase. This program ensures that the benefits of technological innovation are shared and create new professional avenues for employees.
Fourteen driver-partners have already completed specialized training through WeRide and GrabAcademy to become certified Safety Operators. Training has also commenced for Remote Operator roles, allowing staff to monitor the fleet from a central command center. Driver-partners like Vincent Teo have expressed immense pride and excitement about being at the forefront of this advanced technology.
Public Access and Service Details
Members of the public interested in experiencing the service can now register for a ride through the official Ai.R website. The service operates on weekdays from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, offering two full shuttle routes and a shorter 20-minute "Mini Route". These routes were designed in consultation with the community to connect residents with key amenities and transport hubs.
Rides on the Ai.R service will be offered free of charge until the commercial launch planned for mid-2026. This introductory period is designed to encourage public participation and gather valuable feedback on the user experience. The insights collected will help refine service standards and establish an appropriate pricing structure for the future.
The launch of the Ai.R service represents a pivotal moment for autonomous mobility in Singapore and Southeast Asia. The collaboration between WeRide and Grab, supported by government cooperation, showcases a forward-thinking approach to integrating AVs safely into the national transport system. This project not only advances technology but also sets a precedent for community-focused innovation in urban transportation.