Chinese manufacturer of electric cars, robots and drones, Xpeng is advancing its entry into the robotaxi business. Under the Xpeng Yoyo brand, the company has unveiled its own service for autonomous rides and opened registration for the first external users in China. For the operational management of the fleet, Xpeng plans to rely on external partners.
Access to Xpeng Yoyo is initially restricted to users with an invitation code. The operational area currently covers only parts of Guangzhou, where the robotaxis are manufactured. The Volkswagen-affiliated Chinese automotive achiever Xpeng is now opening its robotaxi project to external users, positioning itself not only as a developer of autonomous vehicles but also as a provider of its own mobility service.
The business model differs from that of a traditional taxi company. Xpeng intends to provide the vehicles and required technology, while its partners will handle the operational management. The manufacturer expects revenue from hardware sales, services, and commission-based participation. This means Xpeng can profit from the robotaxi business without having to become a fleet operator.
In November 2025, during the presentation of its robotaxi plans, Xpeng announced a collaboration with the mobility platform Amap as its first ecosystem partner. Such partnerships are meant to help integrate autonomous mobility services into existing platforms and make access easier for passengers.
Xpeng CEO He Xiaopeng had already outlined the business model in May 2026. Here, the company aims to focus on developing its products and generate revenue through partners operating the robotaxis, while the actual execution of the rides will not become part of its core business.
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