Shenzhen is known as one of the most futuristic cities in China, and one of the coolest things we experienced here was taking a Shenzhen driverless taxi!
Yes, you read that right — there was no driver in the car! We booked a robotaxi in Shenzhen for only around $2 for a 3KM ride, and here’s exactly how you can try it too.
How to Book a Driverless Taxi in Shenzhen
1. Download the PonyPilot App
First, download the PonyPilot app. This is the app you can use to book the driverless taxis in Shenzhen.
2. Choose Your Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations
Enter your pick-up and drop-off locations in the app and check if a driverless taxi is available in your area.
Keep in mind that driverless taxis currently only operate in selected areas of Shenzhen, including Shenzhen Bay and Nanshan.
3. Confirm Your Ride
Once you’ve selected your locations, confirm your trip and request the ride.
4. Wait for Your Taxi
Now, just wait for your driverless taxi to arrive!
For us, it took around 10 minutes for the taxi to pick us up, so don’t worry if it takes a little while.
5. Unlock the Car
When the taxi arrives, you can unlock the vehicle through the app. It may also unlock automatically via bluetooth when you approach the car with the device you use to book the car.
Once you get inside, make sure to fasten your seatbelt and press “Start Ride” on the car’s screen.
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What Is It Like Riding in a Driverless Taxi?
This was honestly such a cool experience! Linardo and I were so hyped up the entire time. 😂
The ride itself only took around 15 minutes, and it cost us just $2. New users get an extra discount, so you may be able to get the ride even cheaper.
The car was clean, spacious, and comfortable. You can even adjust some of the settings inside the car, including the air conditioning and heating that can come directly through your seat.
One of the coolest parts is seeing how the car “sees” everything around it. There are cameras and sensors all over the vehicle that help it detect and track the traffic around it. The driving was also surprisingly precise!
Honestly, sitting inside a car with no driver and watching it navigate Shenzhen by itself felt like something straight out of a sci-fi movie.
What Happens When You Arrive?
Once you arrive at your destination, simply get out of the car and close the door.
And then… the taxi will just drive away by itself.
It was such a fun and futuristic experience, and definitely one of the highlights of our time in Shenzhen.
Honestly, if you’re in this area, it actually feels better to take the driverless taxi because regular taxis in China sometimes smell like cigarettes, which I hate so much. So, I highly recommend getting this one instead!
Would You Take a Driverless Taxi in Shenzhen?
f you’re visiting Shenzhen, I definitely think trying a driverless taxi is such a unique experience. It’s affordable, convenient, and gives you a little glimpse into what transportation might look like in the future.
So, would you take a driverless taxi in Shenzhen?
Where to Stay in Shenzhen
1. Raffles Shenzhen
We stayed at Raffles Shenzhen, and it truly delivers ultra-luxury living with exceptional service. Expect panoramic skyline and bay views, elegant rooms, a world-class spa, and Michelin-style dining.
2. Mandarin Oriental Shenzhen
One of the best hotels we have ever stayed at. Mandarin Oriental Shenzhen truly takes luxury hospitality to the next level. From the elegantly designed rooms with panoramic views of the Shenzhen skyline to the most beautiful indoor swimming pool, every detail is exceptional. A true luxury experience in Shenzhen.
Check out our Shenzhen Driverless Taxi vlog here
Planning a trip to Shenzhen? Download our free 6-day Shenzhen itinerary to help you plan your trip, including where to go, what to do, and how to make the most of your time in this incredible city.
Explore More Hidden Gems in China
If you’re planning a longer trip, check out our other China travel blogs featuring Zhangjiajie, Shanghai, and Guangzhou — each offering its own unique blend of nature and culture.
For detailed routes and insider travel tips, download our China Travel eBook, which includes itineraries, hidden attractions, and local experiences curated from our own journeys.
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