This VW Robotaxi Could Be Your Next Uber Ride

Volkswagen and Uber will offer autonomous rides in the ID. Buzz AD starting in 2026

Uber’s original foray into the world of autonomous driving ended in tragedy as Elaine Herzberg was killed after being struck by a specially equipped Volvo XC90 in 2018. In the fallout, the company stopped their self-driving efforts.

Now, Uber and Volkswagen have announced a long-term strategic partnership that will see autonomous ID. Buzz vans on the ride-hailing platform. Rides will be offered in multiple U.S. markets, starting in Los Angeles.

More: VW ID. Buzz AD Prototype Autonomously Travels The Streets Of Munich, Launch Set For 2025

Testing of the ID. Buzz AD is slated to begin later this year and the first commercial rides are expected to begin in 2026. During these initial phases, the vans will have “human operators” onboard to “help refine the technology and ensure safety.” However, once the technology is perfected and everyone signs off, ‘safety drivers’ will become a thing of the past.

If everything goes according to plan, the companies will deploy thousands of ID. Buzz AD vehicles over the next decade. This is a significant development and should help fill the void left by Cruise’s demise.

While testing with Uber is slated to begin later this year, Volkswagen has been working on the ID. Buzz AD for years. In 2022, they showed a prototype with 14 cameras, 11 radar sensors, and five LiDAR sensors.

Volkswagen’s mobility brand MOIA will be providing the ID. Buzz AD and autonomous driving software for the partnership. Uber, on the other hand, will apparently handle everything else.

A number of questions remain, but Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said “This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the advancement of autonomous mobility, and highlights both Volkswagen’s and Uber’s shared dedication to building the future of transportation. We can’t wait to launch in Los Angeles late next year.”