Archive — US — techcrunch
Uber, Volkswagen pair up to launch robotaxi service in US with self-driving,electric microbuses
Volkswagen and Uber announced plans for a commercial robotaxi service using self-driving, electric VW ID. BUZZ vehicles across U.S. cities, starting in Los Angeles by late 2026. Initial deployments will include human safety operators until full autonomy is achieved by 2027, pending regulatory approvals.
Key points
- Volkswagen and Uber will launch a robotaxi service using VW ID. BUZZ vehicles.
- The service will start in Los Angeles by late 2026.
- Initially, human safety operators will oversee vehicles before driverless operations begin in 2027.
- Testing will commence in Los Angeles after securing a permit from the California DMV.
- The partnership aims to merge Volkswagen's manufacturing expertise with Uber's technology.
- Volkswagen ADMT was launched after ending support for self-driving startup Argo.
Why it matters
- The partnership aligns with ongoing trends in autonomous vehicles and electric mobility.
- The U.S. market is increasingly open to AV testing, with regulatory frameworks evolving.
- This move parallels Uber's existing relationships with over 14 AV firms, highlighting collaboration in the AV sector.
The collaboration between Volkswagen and Uber marks a significant step towards the integration of autonomous electric vehicles in urban mobility, showcasing a future where robotaxis could transform transportation in major U.S. cities.