Volkswagen and Uber plan LA robotaxi launch

Volkswagen of America and Uber have teamed up to roll out a commercial robotaxi service using self-driving electric VW ID. Buzz vans.

The launch begins in Los Angeles by late 2026, with plans to expand to other US cities over the next decade.

At first, the robotaxis will include human safety drivers. Volkswagen aims to operate driverless by 2027, depending on regulatory approvals.

Volkswagen ADMT, the company’s autonomous vehicle arm, will start testing in LA later this year after receiving permits from California’s DMV and Public Utilities Commission.

A shift in strategy for Volkswagen and Uber
Volkswagen launched ADMT in July 2023 after parting ways with startup Argo AI, which shut down in 2022. It now partners with Mobileye for autonomous tech. 

The partnership supports VW’s plan to supply self-driving vans and fleet management software rather than run its own ride-hailing business. Both companies say the collaboration advances their shared goal of transforming urban mobility.

Uber, meanwhile, continues expanding AV partnerships, recently partnering with Waymo to launch robotaxi services in Austin and soon in Atlanta.