At a Glance
- Chinese autonomous vehicle company WeRide is planning an IPO in Hong Kong, aiming to raise HK$2.39 billion (US$307.7 million) at HK$27.10 per share.
- This Hong Kong listing is set for November 6, the same day as rival Pony AI Inc., which is also seeking increased exposure in the region amidst U.S. delisting concerns.
- Funds raised will support WeRide’s autonomous driving technology development, robotaxi commercialization, and international expansion.
- The company has secured support from prominent investors including Temasek Holdings, Robert Bosch GmbH, Uber, and Grab Holdings.
- WeRide has demonstrated significant growth, with Q2 2025 revenue up 60.8% YoY, driven by an 836.7% increase in Robotaxi revenue.
WeRide Pursues Hong Kong IPO Amidst Global Expansion
Chinese autonomous vehicle pioneer WeRide is set to launch its shares in Hong Kong, with plans to raise approximately HK$2.39 billion (US$307.7 million). The proposed share price is HK$27.10, which is notably lower than its recent closing price on the Nasdaq. This strategic move aims to bolster the company’s financial resources for its ambitious growth objectives.
The Guangzhou-based company has scheduled its public debut in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region for November 6. Coincidentally, this date marks the IPO of its competitor, Pony AI Inc., which has already raised substantial funds in its New York listing. Both companies’ decisions to pursue listings in Hong Kong reflect a broader trend driven by increasing global interest in the autonomous driving sector and potential concerns regarding U.S. market accessibility.
Funding Will Fuel Technological Advancement and Global Reach
WeRide has engaged Morgan Stanley and China International Capital Corp as joint sponsors for its upcoming IPO, with JPMorgan Chase & Co. also playing a facilitating role. Reports indicate that the capital raised will be strategically allocated to advance WeRide’s autonomous driving technologies, accelerate the commercial rollout of its robotaxi and ride-hailing services, and facilitate international market expansion.
The company has attracted significant investment from various leading entities. Notable investors in this share sale include Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund Temasek Holdings Pte, automotive supplier Robert Bosch GmbH, and mobility giants Uber Technologies Inc. and Grab Holdings Ltd. WeRide highlighted that the participation of Bosch, Uber, and Grab provides more than just financial backing; it signifies a deep commitment to collaboration across diverse markets, technologies, and operational ecosystems.
💡 The strategic involvement of these industry leaders is expected to bolster the widespread commercialization of WeRide’s autonomous vehicles. The company has a history of securing support from major international players, including NVIDIA and Renault-Nissan, underscoring its strong industry positioning.
Global Operations and Impressive Financial Performance
WeRide asserts its unique position as the sole tech company possessing autonomous driving licenses in seven different countries. Its vehicles have been deployed in over 30 cities across 11 nations, including China, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, France, Singapore, and Japan. Currently, the company operates a substantial fleet of over 700 robotaxis and more than 1,500 autonomous vehicles (AVs) worldwide.
📊 The company recently reported robust financial results for the second quarter of 2025. Total revenue saw a significant year-over-year increase of 60.8%, reaching RMB 127.2 million (US$17.8 million), indicating strong commercial momentum. This growth trajectory highlights WeRide’s expanding market presence and operational success.
The Robotaxi segment was a key driver of this growth, with revenue soaring by 836.7% year-over-year to RMB 45.9 million (US$6.4 million). This marks the highest quarterly revenue for the Robotaxi business since its inception and accounted for 36.1% of total revenue in Q2 2025. Furthermore, gross profit increased by 40.6% year-over-year to RMB35.7 million (US$5.0 million), demonstrating an impressive industry-leading margin of 28.1%.
UAE Expansion: Robotaxi and Robobus Pilot Launch
On October 2, WeRide announced the commencement of its Robotaxi GXR and Robobus pilot operations in the United Arab Emirates, in partnership with the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA). This marks WeRide’s initial foray into Ras Al Khaimah and its expansion into a third emirate within the UAE.
📍 The trial integration of WeRide’s AVs into Ras Al Khaimah’s public transportation infrastructure is poised to pave the way for broader commercial deployment of these vehicles across the nation. WeRide has stated it is the only AV company operating in Ras Al Khaimah and the exclusive partner selected for the emirate’s smart mobility initiatives.
Commencing October 2, WeRide’s Robobus began operating a fixed route across nine stations on Al Marjan Island, connecting prominent locations like the Pullman Hotel, Hampton by Hilton, and Mövenpick Resort, with future plans to extend services to Mina Island. The Robotaxi GXR service aims to provide autonomous mobility solutions extending beyond tourist areas, serving the daily transportation needs of residents within Ras Al Khaimah’s city center.
⚡ Commercial operations are projected to commence in early 2026 as an integral part of RAKTA’s public transportation network. Users will have the convenience of booking Robotaxi rides and tracking Robobus locations via RAKTA’s dedicated digital mobility app. Initially, a safety officer will be present during service operations, with fully autonomous operations anticipated following regulatory approval.
Main Insights
WeRide’s planned IPO in Hong Kong signifies a strategic effort to secure capital for technological development and global expansion. The company’s strong investor base, impressive revenue growth, particularly in its Robotaxi segment, and successful international pilot programs in the UAE highlight its significant progress and potential in the autonomous vehicle market.