Uber and Volkswagen Launch Robotaxi Service in the US

Volkswagen and Uber Announce Robotaxi Partnership

Volkswagen of America and Uber revealed a significant plan on Thursday to initiate a commercial robotaxi service. This service will utilize autonomous electric VW ID. BUZZ vehicles across several U.S. cities throughout the next ten years.

Launch Plans and Initial Markets

The companies anticipate commencing commercial operations in Los Angeles, designated as the initial city, by the end of 2026. Specific details regarding potential future expansion markets were not disclosed by VW and Uber.

Phased Deployment with Safety Operators

The initial rollout will not be fully driverless. A fleet of autonomous vehicles will initially include human safety operators positioned behind the wheel. Full driverless operation is projected for 2027, as confirmed by a Volkswagen spokesperson to TechCrunch.

Navigating the Regulatory Landscape

This timeline provides Volkswagen ADMT, the autonomous vehicle division of Volkswagen of America, with up to two years to successfully navigate the regulatory requirements in California. The goal is to secure the necessary permits for testing and eventual commercial operation of its autonomous vehicles.

Testing and Permitting in California

Volkswagen ADMT is scheduled to begin testing in Los Angeles later this year, contingent upon receiving its initial testing permit from the California Department of Motor Vehicles. This agency oversees autonomous vehicle testing and deployment within the state. The California Public Utilities Commission manages permitting for the commercial ride-hailing aspect of robotaxi services.

A Significant Step for Volkswagen ADMT

Despite the challenges ahead, this partnership represents a crucial advancement for Volkswagen ADMT. The subsidiary was officially launched in July 2023, initiating an autonomous vehicle test program in Austin with a fleet of ten all-electric ID. Buzz vehicles, utilizing technology from partner Mobileye.

From Argo to Mobileye

The parent company, Volkswagen Group, along with Ford, had previously invested in the autonomous vehicle startup Argo. However, both automakers later withdrew financial support and absorbed the company’s assets. Subsequently, Volkswagen turned to Mobileye for autonomous vehicle technology, a relationship that has strengthened over time. ADMT, Volkswagen’s U.S.-based initiative, was established approximately nine months after Argo’s closure.

Focus on Vehicle Sales and Fleet Management

In 2023, Volkswagen stated it had no intention of developing a dedicated ride-hailing service. However, the company did express interest in selling its self-driving ID. Buzz vans and associated fleet management software to other businesses.

Partnership Details Confirmed

The specifics of the partnership with Uber indicate that this initial plan remains in effect.

Volkswagen's Vision for Future Mobility

“Volkswagen is not just a car manufacturer — we are shaping the future of mobility, and our collaboration with Uber accelerates that vision,” stated Christian Senger, CEO of Volkswagen Autonomous Mobility. “What really sets us apart is our ability to combine the best of both worlds–high-volume manufacturing expertise with cutting-edge technology and a deep understanding of urban mobility needs.”

Uber's Expanding AV Partnerships

This collaboration also represents Uber’s latest venture into autonomous vehicle partnerships. The ride-hailing company has been actively securing agreements with over 14 autonomous vehicle firms, spanning ride-hailing, delivery, and trucking sectors. Uber recently launched a robotaxi service with Waymo in Austin and is preparing to do the same in Atlanta.