Apocalypse for Online Drivers Rages On, Now Reaching Singapore
The development of the driverless autonomous taxi (robotaxi) industry is expanding worldwide. This trend has, in recent years, given rise to new automotive giants in China and the United States (US).
Lately, robotaxis have also begun trials in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Most recently, the ‘wave’ of robotaxis has entered Indonesia’s neighbouring country, Singapore.
The presence of robotaxis in Singapore stems from a partnership between WeRide and Grab. WeRide is a global player in the autonomous driving technology industry. Meanwhile, Grab is a major ride-hailing operator in Southeast Asia, which also operates in Indonesia.
According to WeRide’s official statement, public operations for the AI.R (Autonomously Intelligent Ride) service began on Tuesday (31/3) in Punggol. Local residents can experience Singapore’s first autonomous passenger service implemented within a residential area.
The company stated that the transition to public service followed a rigorous public engagement phase. Since January 2026, more than 1,000 passengers, including Punggol residents, have tried the service and provided feedback to improve the travel experience.
To date, the AI.R fleet is claimed to have safely covered 30,000 km in autonomous conditions.
“WeRide is proud to bring Singapore’s first autonomous public transport service to the Punggol district. This achievement reflects our technology’s readiness and our shared commitment with Grab to advance the future of urban mobility,” said Kerry Xu, General Manager for Singapore at WeRide, according to the official statement on Wednesday (1/4/2026).
WeRide’s GXR vehicles have operated as autonomous taxis in China, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. Xu hopes that the presence of robotaxis in Singapore can deliver the same reliable performance as in previous markets, in close coordination with local authorities.
“Grab is delighted to bring the first autonomous vehicle service in a residential area to the public. This service is not just about deploying advanced autonomous vehicles, but also about building a future where technology and society move forward together,” said Alejandro Osorio, Managing Director of Grab Singapore.
Furthermore, Osorio said the integration of autonomous travel into the daily lives of Punggol residents is expected to upskill Grab’s driver partners to new roles.
“We ensure that the benefits of innovation can be enjoyed by all. We are very excited to take this important step towards a smoother and more sustainable transport ecosystem for Singapore,” he added.