Pony.ai and GAC Toyota debut mass-produced robotaxi based on Toyota’s bZ4X EV

GAC Toyota today announced the rollout of the first mass-produced bZ4X robotaxi. The new autonomous vehicle incorporates the updated bZ4X design, showcasing Toyota’s latest family aesthetic, and is equipped with Pony.ai‘s seventh-generation autonomous driving system.

The new bZ4X model is highlighted by its C-shaped daytime running lights. In terms of dimensions, the vehicle measures 4690mm in length, 1860mm in width, and 1650mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2850mm, consistent with the current production model. Powering the vehicle is a pure electric powertrain, offering a maximum output of 163 kW (219 hp) for the single-motor variant, with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive option also available.

The bZ4X Robotaxi is integrated with Pony.ai’s seventh-generation autonomous driving passenger vehicle system. This system leverages Pony.ai’s technical capabilities, validated through long-term operations in the urban environments of major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. It has also undergone system-level optimisation for various operational scenarios.

According to Pony.ai, a joint venture formed by Pony.ai, Toyota China, and GAC Toyota plans to deploy a fleet of thousands of BZ4X Robotaxis by 2026. These vehicles are slated to commence operations in China’s first-tier cities, marking a step towards the commercialisation of autonomous mobility services.

On February 26, 2020, Pony.ai secured a 400 million USD investment from Toyota. As a key investor throughout Pony.ai’s development, Toyota has seen many of Pony.ai’s robotaxis built upon its vehicle platforms.

Prior to the introduction of the bZ4X, Pony.ai’s fifth-generation robotaxis were based on the Lexus RX450h, and its sixth-generation vehicles are based on the Toyota Sienna. Both of these earlier generations were internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

At Pony.ai’s 2025 media briefing on December 11, 2025, co-founder and CFO Wang Haojun announced significant expansion plans for the company’s Robotaxi fleet. He stated that the fleet size grew from over 200 vehicles in 2024 to nearly 1,000 by the end of 2025, with projections to reach 3,000 vehicles by the end of 2026.

Addressing the timeline for profitability, Wang Haojun indicated that based on Pony.ai’s operational trajectory, “We anticipate reaching a fleet size of 100,000 vehicles by 2030, which suggests the company will achieve breakeven status before 2030.”