Shenzhen’s Robotaxi Boom Leaves Thousands of Drivers Idle

Shenzhen, China’s tech hub, is rapidly expanding its fleet of driverless taxis. The shift toward automation now threatens the city’s gig economy workforce, leaving many human drivers without work. As robotaxis become more common, officials say the goal is to improve efficiency and reduce costs. But for drivers who rely on ride-hailing apps, the change brings uncertainty. The city has approved new routes for autonomous vehicles, and companies like Baidu are testing hundreds of self-driving cars. While the technology promises fewer accidents and lower emissions, critics warn it is eliminating jobs faster than new ones can be created. Shenzhen’s move is a test case for other cities watching how automation reshapes urban transport.