Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On September 5, Pony.ai announced a strategic collaboration with Qatar's state-owned transport operator Mowasalat to accelerate the deployment of autonomous driving technologies and vehicles in the country.
The partners have already begun testing Robotaxi services on public roads in Doha. Pony.ai is localizing its Level 4 technology to handle Qatar's unique climate, infrastructure, and traffic conditions, ensuring its vehicles can operate safely and efficiently in these demanding environments.
Mowasalat oversees Qatar's largest network of taxis, buses, limousines, and commercial transport, while also serving as a key player in the country's national mobility strategy. The tie-up with Pony.ai aligns with the "Qatar National Vision 2030," supporting the country's ambition to build a sustainable and technologically advanced society.
Pony.ai co-founder and CEO James Peng called the agreement another significant step in the company's global expansion. He noted that Qatar offers a favorable environment for autonomous mobility and that Mowasalat brings valuable local expertise. Together, the companies aim to build a scalable autonomous service ecosystem tailored to Qatar's needs.
Qatar's extreme climate presents a formidable testing ground for Robotaxi deployment. Summer temperatures often exceed 45°C, sandstorms are frequent, and high humidity combined with intense sunlight places heavy demands on sensors, navigation, and cooling systems. These conditions make the country an ideal proving ground for road-ready Level 4 technologies.
Pony.ai's Robotaxis use a multi-sensor fusion system that combines LiDAR, radar, and cameras to deliver 360-degree coverage without blind spots. A proprietary self-cleaning mechanism further enhances performance in harsh weather and dusty conditions.
The system has already cleared automotive-grade testing in desert conditions and extreme heat, validating its safety and reliability for Level 4 operations. Pony.ai says the vehicles are engineered to perform across a wide range of climates, ensuring passengers enjoy a safe and comfortable ride regardless of season or geography.
Pony.ai commented that the partnership underscores both companies' determination to accelerate the adoption of autonomous mobility in Qatar. By combining innovation with operational expertise, Pony.ai and Mowasalat hope to set new benchmarks for self-driving deployment across the Middle East.
Pony.ai is simultaneously expanding in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. In July, the company signed a strategic agreement with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority to begin Robotaxi trials in 2025, with the aim of launching fully driverless commercial operations in 2026.
