DiDi Autonomous Driving has begun fully driverless service trials with its next-generation Robotaxi R2. Jointly developed by DiDi and GAC Aion, the new vehicle features upgrades in autonomous driving performance and cabin experience. The robotaxi is available for bookings via the DiDi app in selected demonstration areas in Beijing and Guangzhou in China.
The R2 has been purpose-built for robotaxi services and designed for global deployment. Powered by DiDi Autonomous Driving’s Level 4 full-stack software and hardware, it is equipped with 33 sensors and a triple-domain fusion central computing platform to enhance perception accuracy and its ability to handle complex driving scenarios. It also meets five-star safety standards under C-NCAP and Euro NCAP and incorporates a multi-layer redundancy system.
The vehicle features high-angle adjustable seats. Equipped with a 17.3in ceiling-mounted screen with entertainment features, it has an AI voice interaction system that enables riders to complete PIN verification and start the trip, adjust the air conditioning, open the windows and control the ambient lighting through voice commands.
Before arriving at the pickup point, the vehicle will open its windows to ventilate the cabin. Additional features will be rolled out gradually, including an exterior interaction screen and options to preset cabin temperature and ambient lighting color, as well as vehicle-locating features using the horn and voice prompts.
The R2 has undergone rigorous testing and validation. Since its delivery in January, the vehicle has been deployed for public-road testing in Guangzhou, Beijing, Shenzhen and other cities, demonstrating safe and stable operations.