BEIJING, Sept 9 (Reuters) – WeRide, a China-based autonomous driving startup, said on Thursday that it would start developing self-driving vans for urban logistics service, with automaker JMC (000550.SZ) and delivery firm ZTO Express (2057.HK).
The Guangzhou-based startup, led by founder Tony Han, is pursuing what is known in the auto industry as a level 4 autonomous standard, in which the vehicle can handle all aspects of driving in most circumstances with no human intervention.
WeRide is currently testing autonomous passenger cars and mini-buses.
Backed by Nissan Motor (7201.T), WeRide said in a statement that it would jointly develop self-driving vans with JMC, in which Ford Motor (F.N) has a stake, and ZTO. A pilot test will take place near the airport in Guangzhou city.
