While the dream of driverless cars populating our streets remains a vision of the future, Guangzhou-based WeRide offers a glimpse of automation with its groundbreaking Robosweeper S1. This innovative machine is touted as the world’s first Level 4-capable autonomous sanitation equipment designed to handle a range of scenarios on open roads.
Although the Robosweeper S1 may not have the allure of a futuristic vehicle, it marks a significant advancement in autonomous technology. WeRide has not disclosed the price of the Robosweeper S1, but the company has secured contracts worth “nearly tens of millions of dollars” with several partners.
The Robosweeper S1, named for its one-ton capacity, measures 101.1 inches in length (excluding brushes) and features a minimum turning radius of 106.3 inches. It is offered in three versions—Air, Pro, and Max—and is equipped with a 400-liter water tank and a 240-liter garbage bin.
A notable feature of the Robosweeper S1 is its absence of a traditional windshield, replaced by a large black panel, indicating the lack of an onboard operator. The vehicle’s design adheres to Level 4 automation standards, which means it may or may not include pedals or a steering wheel. The autonomous system is capable of navigating under specific conditions and will halt if these conditions are not met.
However, there is a caveat. Despite WeRide’s claim that the Robosweeper S1 can handle all open-road scenarios, the fine print in their press release reveals that the machine is intended for “non-motorized” environments. This typically refers to sidewalks and other pedestrian areas where conventional vehicles are not permitted.
The Robosweeper S1 is designed for efficient operation in parks, sidewalks, greenways, and similar non-motorized lanes. The startup did not disclose battery specifics or charging times but stated that the sweeper can cover up to 120,000 square meters (1,291 square feet) on a full charge. Additionally, it features automatic garbage dumping and parking capabilities.
Currently, WeRide’s Robosweeper S1 is in operation across five cities in China, including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Dalian, Beijing, and Zhengzhou. In 2024, the company launched its first Level 4 autonomous sanitation commercial projects in Beijing and Zhengzhou, marking a significant milestone in autonomous cleaning technology.