Uber is expanding its autonomous vehicle services in Abu Dhabi through a partnership with WeRide, a Chinese autonomous vehicle developer.
This collaboration will introduce robotaxi rides in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant step in Uber's strategy to integrate autonomous technology into its platform.
Initially, the WeRide robotaxis will operate with a human driver present in each vehicle, ensuring a secure and reliable experience for both riders and pedestrians.
The companies plan to roll out a completely driverless commercial service by 2025, which will operate on designated routes between Saadiyat Island and Yas Island, as well as to and from Zayed International Airport.
WeRide is publicly listed on the Nasdaq and holds permits for driverless vehicle testing and operations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, China, Singapore, and the United States.
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi has emphasized the company's success in securing partnerships with over a dozen autonomous vehicle developers, which are crucial for enhancing Uber's deployment plans and expanding its market reach.
The introduction of robotaxis in Abu Dhabi may pose challenges to Uber's core mobility business, as competition in the autonomous vehicle sector intensifies.
However, market analysts believe that autonomous vehicles will significantly expand the addressable market for ride-hailing services, and Uber is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.
The partnership between Uber and WeRide represents a significant milestone in the evolution of ride-hailing services and reflects a shift in consumer expectations regarding mobility solutions.