WeRide’s SEC Filing: A Closer Look

New York, NY – On March 25, 2025, WeRide Inc., a frontrunner in the global autonomous driving technology sector, officially filed its annual report on Form 20-F with the securities and Exchange commission (SEC) for the fiscal year concluding December 31, 2024. This filing, a crucial step for any publicly traded company, provides a thorough overview of WeRide’s financial performance and strategic direction. The report is readily accessible in electronic format on both the company’s investor relations website and the SEC’s website, ensuring openness for investors and stakeholders.

For U.S. investors accustomed to scrutinizing such filings, the Form 20-F offers insights into WeRide’s operational strategies and financial health. The availability of hard copies, containing audited consolidated financial statements, underscores WeRide’s commitment to accessibility for all shareholders and ADS (American Depositary Shares) holders. Requests for these hard copies can be directed to the company’s IR department in Guangzhou, China.

WeRide: Pioneering the Robotaxi Revolution

weride has positioned itself as a “global leader and a first mover in the autonomous driving industry, as well as the first publicly traded robotaxi company.” This bold claim is supported by its innovative WeRide One platform, designed for versatility and adaptability across various transportation needs. From mobility solutions to logistics and even sanitation, WeRide aims to revolutionize how we move people and goods.

The company’s global footprint is already important, with autonomous driving operations and partnerships established in numerous countries.However,the U.S. market represents a particularly enticing opportunity,given its size,technological sophistication,and openness to innovation.The annual report underscores WeRide’s ambition to tap into this potential,outlining strategies for navigating the complex regulatory landscape and building public trust.

The robotaxi market is projected to experience exponential growth in the coming years. According to a recent report by mckinsey & Company, the autonomous vehicle industry could generate $300 billion to $400 billion in revenue by 2025. WeRide’s strategic focus on robotaxis positions it to capitalize on this burgeoning market, provided it can successfully navigate the challenges of operating in diverse urban environments and securing regulatory approvals.

U.S.Expansion: What’s on the Horizon?

WeRide’s potential U.S. expansion hinges on several key factors, including strategic partnerships, technological advancements, and regulatory clarity. The company recognizes the importance of collaboration, identifying ride-sharing platforms, logistics companies, and municipalities as potential partners.

According to Dr. Reed, a leading expert in autonomous vehicle technology, “Partnering with established players will prove crucial.” He suggests several collaboration scenarios:

• Ride-Sharing Platforms: “Teaming up with Uber, Lyft, or similar ride-sharing services allows for a fast introduction to the market. WeRide offers them advanced autonomous technology without them having to build it themselves.” This approach would allow WeRide to leverage existing infrastructure and customer bases, accelerating market penetration.
• Logistics and Delivery companies: “Collaborating with delivery services, such as existing commercial transporters, or major retailers, allows for test deployment and targeted service expansion to fill consumer demand.” The demand for efficient and cost-effective delivery solutions is rapidly growing, making this a promising avenue for WeRide.
• Municipalities and Urban Planning: “Collaborations with city planners allows for pilot city testing, traffic integration and public service operation.” Working closely with local governments is essential for navigating regulatory hurdles and ensuring seamless integration with existing transportation systems.

These partnerships are not just about market access; they are also about building trust and demonstrating the safety and reliability of WeRide’s technology. Pilot programs in select cities, conducted in collaboration with local authorities, can provide valuable data and help to address public concerns.

The WeRide One platform: A Key Differentiator

The WeRide One platform is a central element of the company’s strategy, offering a versatile and adaptable solution for various autonomous driving applications. Its flexibility allows it to be tailored to different vehicle types and operating environments, providing a significant competitive advantage.

Dr. Reed emphasizes that “The adaptability is a major asset. The versatility of the WeRide One platform means it could be adapted to different vehicles and uses. For example, WeRide One could be tailored to a city such as New York with dense areas, or Los Angeles with massive sprawling regions. This platform makes WeRide versatile in a way not typically found in a more narrowly designed platform.”

This adaptability is particularly important in the U.S. market, where urban landscapes vary dramatically from coast to coast. A one-size-fits-all approach is unlikely to succeed, making the WeRide One platform’s flexibility a valuable asset.

Addressing Potential Concerns

The accomplished adoption of autonomous driving technology hinges on addressing public concerns about safety, reliability, and job displacement. WeRide recognizes the importance of transparency and proactive communication in building trust.

The company is committed to “investing in robust safety protocols and openness. This involves rigorous testing, clear communication about safety measures, and accident data reporting practices.” This commitment to safety is paramount, as any incidents involving autonomous vehicles could significantly undermine public confidence.

Furthermore, WeRide plans to actively engage in “educational campaigns and forums to address public concerns and encourage dialog. Transparency builds confidence.” Open communication and public engagement are essential for fostering a positive perception of autonomous driving technology and addressing potential anxieties.

The Future of Autonomous Driving: A U.S. perspective

The long-term outlook for autonomous driving in the U.S. is promising, with the potential to transform transportation, logistics, and urban planning. However, realizing this potential requires addressing several key challenges.

Dr. Reed believes that “The future promises to be a transformation. The long-term outlook is promising. the U.S. has the potential to be a world leader, and companies like WeRide could play roles in shaping that narrative.”

Several factors will accelerate the shift towards autonomous driving:

• Technological Advancements: “Continued progress in sensor technology, artificial intelligence, and software progress” is essential for improving the safety and reliability of autonomous vehicles.
• Regulatory Clarity: “Clearer, more consistent regulations across state lines” are needed to provide a stable and predictable operating environment for autonomous vehicle companies. The current patchwork of state and local regulations creates significant challenges for companies seeking to deploy autonomous vehicles across multiple jurisdictions.
• Infrastructure Progress: “Investments in infrastructure that supports autonomous vehicles, like smart traffic systems and connected roadways” are crucial for optimizing the performance of autonomous vehicles and enhancing safety.
• Public Acceptance: “Increased trust and use of autonomous vehicles through experience and evidence” are necessary for widespread adoption. positive experiences with autonomous vehicles will help to dispel skepticism and build confidence in the technology.

WeRide can play a significant role in shaping this future by “building its brand in the market, by developing reliable technology, and by working with government authorities to build public trust.” However, “winning this race will require constant innovation, strategic partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to safely revolutionizing transportation.”

Contact Details

For further information or media inquiries, please contact WeRide’s Investor Relations department in Guangzhou, China.

WeRide’s Robotaxi ambitions: Will the U.S.pave the Way to Autonomous Driving Dominance?

WeRide’s ambitions are clear: to become a dominant player in the global autonomous driving market.The U.S. represents a critical battleground in this quest. Success in the U.S. market would not only generate significant revenue but also solidify WeRide’s position as a technology leader.

However, the path to success is not without its challenges. WeRide must navigate a complex regulatory landscape, build public trust, and compete with established players in the U.S. market.The company’s strategic partnerships, technological innovation, and commitment to safety will be crucial in determining its ultimate success.

The future of transportation is rapidly evolving, and autonomous driving technology is poised to play a transformative role. WeRide’s U.S. expansion represents a significant step towards realizing this future, but the journey is just begining.