WeRide (WRD) said Friday it has launched fully driverless robo-taxi trial operations in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.

Beginning Q2, a fleet of WeRide's autonomous taxis will begin operating on public roads without a safety driver, the company said.

WeRide also said it will expand service coverage to two new districts of Abu Dhabi.

Commercial autonomous vehicle rides and more service areas will be introduced beginning summer 2025, subject to regulatory approval, the company said.

WeRide shares were 4% higher pre-bell.