Grab is taking a big step into the future of mobility with plans to invest in Chinese autonomous driving company WeRide. It is a move that could see robotaxis and driverless shuttles hit Southeast Asian roads in the coming years.
The investment, expected to wrap up by mid-2026, will allow WeRide’s self-driving technology to be plugged directly into Grab’s ecosystem.
That means integration with its fleet management, routing, and ride-matching systems, alongside joint work on safety checks, remote monitoring, and vehicle upkeep. Beyond tech, both firms are also looking at how automation will reshape jobs. Training programmes are in the works to help Grab drivers and local communities shift into new roles as the industry evolves.
WeRide founder and CEO Dr. Tony Han said the company plans to roll out “thousands of robotaxis” in phases, working closely with regulators.
“Grab’s scale and regional know-how will help us accelerate AV deployment,” he said.
Grab co-founder and CEO Anthony Tan added that AVs could ease driver shortages. “We’ll be testing WeRide’s vehicles across different cities to ensure they’re safe, reliable, and adapted to local traffic conditions,” he noted.
Still, it may be a while before Southeast Asians can book a Grab driverless ride. Malaysia’s inclusion in the first wave of deployments also remains unclear.
Meanwhile, competition is heating up. Chinese tech giant Baidu is reportedly eyeing Singapore and Malaysia for its Apollo Go robotaxi service, partnering with local fleet operators to enter the market with a lighter, asset-sharing approach. Grab has not revealed the value of its investment in WeRide but says the partnership is focused on making transport more efficient and accessible, especially as manpower remains one of Southeast Asia’s biggest challenges.