Chinese Self-Driving Truck Startup CiDi Aims for Profitability in 2025

CiDi, a Chinese self-driving vehicle startup, expects to become profitable next year by offering software and services for mining and factory applications. The company is open to considering an IPO among various financing options. CiDi, valued at $1.2 billion in a private funding round earlier this year, has attracted investors including Baidu’s venture capital arm, Sequoia China, and Legend Holdings. While many Chinese companies are pushing autonomous driving technology for open roads, introducing vehicles like robo-taxis, CiDi remains focused on industrial transportation, particularly in areas like mines and factories where the economics of replacing drivers are clearer and implementation doesn’t rely on broader regulatory approval.