Bandung, Indonesia Sentinel — Uber is doubling down on its autonomous vehicle strategy, partnering with key players in the industry to bring robotaxi to global markets. On Wednesday, the ride-hailing and delivery giant announced a new collaboration with Chinese autonomous driving company WeRide, marking another step forward in Uber’s autonomous vehicle ambitions.
WeRide’s robotaxis is set to hit the streets of Abu Dhabi later this year, following the company’s successful licensing to test autonomous vehicles in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
WeRide’s entry into the UAE comes amid growing interest from Chinese autonomous vehicle (AV) and electric vehicle (EV) companies looking to the Middle East, where business-friendly regulations and abundant funding create a fertile environment for growth.
The company, which had initially planned to go public in the U.S., got its IPO postponed as it worked to complete required documentation. This move comes as the Biden administration has pushed to restrict Chinese and Russian self-driving technology from being tested in the U.S., citing national security concerns. As a result, WeRide has shifted its focus to the Middle East.
With this latest partnership, Uber and WeRide will introduce robotaxis in Abu Dhabi by the end of the year, making WeRide the first company to hold a UAE license for operating autonomous taxis.
Uber’s Expanding Robo-Taxi Operations
In the U.S., Uber is also ramping up its autonomous vehicle efforts. In mid-September, the company extended its collaboration with Alphabet-owned Waymo to bring Waymo’s robotaxis to Austin, Texas, and Atlanta, Georgia, starting in early 2025. Uber has already partnered with Waymo on the ride-hail side of its operations and have been available on the Uber app in Phoenix since October 2023.
The partnership is mutually beneficial as Waymo gains access to Uber’s extensive customer base, while Uber solidifies its role as a platform for cutting-edge transportation technology. Under this agreement, Uber will manage fleet operations, including cleaning, repairs, and depot services, while Waymo will supply the autonomous vehicles and handle roadside assistance.
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In August, Uber also inked a deal with General Motors’ robotaxi unit, Cruise, which will bring Cruise’s autonomous vehicles to Uber’s platform starting next year.
During Uber’s second-quarter earnings call in early August, CEO Dara Khosrowshahi emphasized the company’s unique position to help autonomous vehicle firms scale their technology. “Uber is uniquely positioned to offer tremendous value for AV players looking to deploy their technology at scale.”
As Uber expands its collaborations with top autonomous vehicle companies, it is clear that the ride-hailing giant sees a driverless future as a key component of its long-term strategy, both in the U.S. and abroad.
(Raidi/Agung)
