Alibaba's Qwen debuts a ride-hailing service, intensifying competition with Didi's AI integration in transport, according to Caixin.
Alibaba's AI chatbot Qwen has introduced a ride-hailing service as competition intensifies with market leader Didi to embed generative AI into transport, reports Caixin.
The new feature allows users to book rides, choose vehicle types, schedule trips, and pay directly within the Qwen app. It is powered by Alibaba's mapping platform Amap, upgrading an earlier version that required users to switch to the separate Amap application.
The launch follows Didi's rollout of its own AI assistant, Xiaodi, which was tested publicly from September and is now integrated into its main app. The system translates conversational prompts into more than 90 service tags, automatically requesting smoother rides for unwell passengers or prioritizing spacious interiors for pregnant users.
Separately, China's autonomous driving developer WeRide plans to launch robotaxi services this year in Hong Kong and Singapore, reported the South China Morning Post.
Company director Maeve Zhang said WeRide's Hong Kong entry would include both robotaxis and robobuses, though details of operation areas and launch timing were not disclosed.
In Singapore, WeRide will introduce its Robotaxi GXR model in partnership with Grab. From April 1, passengers will be able to book self-driving rides via the Grab app, with a safety operator on board initially to comply with local rules.
