Baidu, a Chinese AI company, has announced that its Apollo Go robotaxi service is expected to begin operations in Greater Zurich in 2026.
This development follows the company’s recent decision to establish its new European hub for autonomous mobility in the region, according to NZZ.
Greater Zurich will become Baidu’s first operational market in Europe and only its second outside China, after Dubai.
Unlike large urban centres where robotaxi services are commonly trialled, Baidu intends to introduce its autonomous vehicles in rural areas of Switzerland.
The aim is to complement existing public transport networks and address long-standing mobility gaps, expanding access to mobility throughout the region.
Dr Yong Geßner, Head of Baidu Intelligent Driving Group Europe, said:
“Switzerland’s stability and neutrality provide a secure entry point to Europe. The country’s strong innovation drive, particularly in AI and sustainable technologies, together with Greater Zurich’s position as a leading European centre for AI research and application, made the region a natural choice. Access to highly skilled talent, supported by world-class universities and global technology firms, was also a decisive factor.”
The planned deployment of Apollo Go in Greater Zurich marks a further step in Baidu’s international expansion and reflects growing interest in applying autonomous mobility solutions to diverse geographic and social contexts.
Featured image credit: Apollo Go
