In a significant move set to accelerate the arrival of autonomous mobility in Europe, global automaker Stellantis and leading Chinese autonomous vehicle technology company Pony.ai have announced a strategic collaboration. The two powerhouses have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop and deploy SAE Level 4 robotaxi solutions, with an ambitious target of rolling out vehicles across European cities starting in 2026.
This partnership marks a crucial step for both companies. For Stellantis, it reinforces its commitment to becoming a sustainable mobility tech company, leveraging Pony.ai’s advanced autonomous driving capabilities. For Pony.ai, the alliance is a key pillar in its aggressive global expansion strategy, solidifying its presence in the competitive European market.
Hardware Meets High-Tech Software
The core of this collaboration lies in the integration of Pony.ai’s sophisticated self-driving software and hardware solutions with Stellantis’s robust electric vehicle platforms. Specifically, Pony.ai’s autonomous technology will be embedded into Stellantis’s K0 AV-Ready Platform – BEV version, which is a purpose-built electric medium-size van platform equipped with advanced sensors and redundant systems essential for autonomous operation.
The initial phase of this venture will see test vehicles based on the Peugeot e-Traveller model. This electric combispace, renowned for its versatility and passenger comfort, will serve as the perfect foundation for developing and refining the robotaxi service. The e-Traveller, part of Stellantis’s leading Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) portfolio in Europe, highlights the companies’ strategic focus on multi-passenger and shuttle services for their initial deployment.
“This partnership with Pony.ai is a testament to our open innovation approach and our commitment to bringing cutting-edge autonomous mobility solutions to our customers,” stated a Stellantis spokesperson. “By integrating Pony.ai’s proven Level 4 technology with our robust electric vehicle platforms, we are confident in delivering safe, efficient, and accessible robotaxi services across Europe.”
Testing Commences Soon
The roll-out plan is methodical and strategically positioned. Real-world testing of the Peugeot e-Traveller robotaxis is slated to begin in the coming months in Luxembourg, which also serves as Pony.ai’s European headquarters. This choice of location offers a conducive environment for initial validation and refinement, taking advantage of local infrastructure and regulatory frameworks.
Following the initial testing phase, the ambition is clear: a broader deployment of robotaxis across various European cities, with the first services expected to become operational in 2026. This timeline underscores the rapid pace at which both companies aim to bring their combined vision to fruition, promising a new era of urban transport.
“Europe presents a massive opportunity for autonomous mobility, and we are thrilled to partner with Stellantis, a leader in the automotive industry, to bring our robotaxi technology to the continent,” commented a Pony.ai representative. “Our proven Level 4 autonomous driving system, combined with Stellantis’s vehicle platforms, will deliver a superior and safe experience for European passengers.”
Pony.ai’s Global Expansion and IPO Pursuits
This alliance with Stellantis is the latest in a series of strategic moves by Pony.ai to expand its global footprint. Just a few months prior, the company announced a significant partnership with Uber to deploy its robotaxis on the Uber platform, with initial launches planned for a key Middle Eastern market and subsequent expansion into other international territories, including Europe. The company also secured an autonomous vehicle testing permit from Luxembourg in April, laying the groundwork for its European operations.
Concurrent with its operational expansion, Pony.ai is also actively pursuing financial strategies to fuel its growth. Already listed on the Nasdaq in the U.S., the company is in the process of a secondary listing on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (HKEX). In October 2025, China’s securities regulator confirmed the filing for Pony.ai’s planned issuance of up to 102 million ordinary shares on the HKEX, a move aimed at establishing a dual-listing structure to broaden its investor base and enhance capital access for its ambitious R&D and global deployment initiatives.
The collaboration between Stellantis and Pony.ai signifies a powerful convergence of traditional automotive manufacturing expertise and cutting-edge artificial intelligence. As urban landscapes evolve and the demand for sustainable, autonomous transportation grows, this partnership positions both companies at the forefront of a transformative shift in how people and goods will move across Europe. The roads of 2026 may look very different, with a new generation of robotaxis silently navigating our cities.
