Lotus and CaoCao Mobility launch autonomous driving system

Lotus Robotics, the self-driving technology unit of Lotus, has announced a partnership with CaoCao Mobility, the ride-hailing unit that Geely Holding has strategically invested in. Together, the brands have launched China's first fully comprehensive autonomous driving system, powered by Lotus Robotics, that will feature full-customised car, full-unmanned autonomous driving, and fully automated operations.

Both companies have also successfully completed a pilot programme in China, with the self-driving technology achieving 13,545km of driving in test areas without human intervention, and will continue to refine the vehicle-road-cloud integration model, blending vehicle intelligence with infrastructure to address challenges such as unexpected pedestrian crossings.

This announcement was followed closely by Lotus Robotics' partnership with Aramco Digital, a subsidiary of Saudi Aramco, as both companies are exploring implementing Robotaxis in the Middle East.

Currently deployed in China, global market rollout of this technology is expected to take place in the fourth quarter of 2025, with the level of autonomy offered in each region subject to market-specific regulations. Lotus Robotics currently works with multiple leading global automotive brands to enable them to reap the benefits of self-driving technology including Lynk & Co, Farizon Auto, and more.