Pony AI Inc. (PONY) saw its stock surge 5% in pre-market trading on Wednesday, following the announcement that the company has commenced road testing of its seventh-generation Beijing Automotive Industry Corporation (BAIC) Robotaxi model in Beijing. This development marks a significant milestone in Pony AI's autonomous driving program and has sparked investor enthusiasm.

The road testing is taking place within Beijing's 225-square-kilometer High-Level Autonomous Driving Demonstration Zone, showcasing the company's commitment to advancing its technology in real-world conditions. Notably, Pony AI is not limiting its testing to Beijing alone; the company is also conducting tests in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, demonstrating the adaptability and stability of its autonomous driving system across diverse urban environments.

Looking ahead, Pony AI has set an ambitious target to expand its fleet to 1,000 vehicles by the end of 2025. This goal underscores the company's confidence in its technology and its readiness for large-scale production and commercial deployment. As Pony AI continues to make strides in the competitive autonomous driving sector, investors appear optimistic about the company's growth prospects and market position, as reflected in the pre-market stock movement.