Pony AI Inc (PONY) saw its stock soar 5.31% in after-hours trading on Thursday, following a significant announcement about its autonomous driving operations. The company revealed it has received a license to provide fully driverless commercial robotaxi services in Shenzhen's Nanshan District, marking a major milestone in its development and expansion plans.

This license allows Pony AI to operate its robotaxis without a safety driver behind the wheel, representing a leap forward in autonomous vehicle technology and regulatory approval. Shenzhen, known as China's tech hub, is a strategic location for such services, potentially providing Pony AI with a valuable testbed and revenue stream.

The after-hours stock surge reflects investor optimism about Pony AI's progress in the competitive autonomous driving sector. This development not only demonstrates the company's technological capabilities but also suggests potential for accelerated growth and market penetration in one of China's most innovative cities. As the autonomous vehicle market continues to evolve, Pony AI's achievement in Shenzhen could position it as a leading player in the industry.