Chinese autonomous driving startup Pony AI is aiming for a significant US IPO, seeking a valuation as high as $4.5 billion. The company plans to raise up to $224 million in its initial public offering, with terms being set for an expected $180 million raise. However, this ambitious valuation comes amidst challenges, as the financial outlook for Pony AI has fluctuated, recently leading to the loss of billionaire status for its CEO, James Peng. Investors may soon have more options in the robotaxi space as Pony AI seeks to establish itself against competitors like Tesla.