Uber, Cruise partner to provide self-driving robotaxi rides in major transportation deal

"We’re thrilled to partner with Cruise and look forward to launching next year.”Photo byAustin DistelonUnsplash

Uber and Cruise LLC, the self-driving car startup owned by General Motors, have announced a new partnership to introduce autonomous vehicles to the ridesharing market.

Beginning next year, Cruise will supply Uber with Chevy Bolt self-driving vehicles, marking a significant step in the integration of autonomous technology into Uber's platform.

Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “As the largest mobility and delivery platform, we believe Uber can play an important role in helping to safely and reliably introduce autonomous technology to consumers and cities around the world. We’re thrilled to partner with Cruise and look forward to launching next year.”

Cruise, which previously operated autonomous taxis in San Francisco, had its permit revoked by California authorities following safety incidents, including pedestrian accidents. Federal regulators are also investigating the incidents. Despite these setbacks, the new partnership aims to advance the deployment of self-driving technology and enhance its integration into urban transportation systems.