This VW Robotaxi Might Be Your Upcoming Uber Experience | Carscoops

      Volkswagen and Uber are set to provide autonomous rides with the ID. Buzz AD starting in 2026.

      The service is expected to kick off in Los Angeles before expanding to other cities across the country.

      If successful, there may be thousands of autonomous vans operating nationwide.

      Uber's previous attempt in the autonomous driving space ended tragically when Elaine Herzberg was killed by a modified Volvo XC90 in 2018, leading to a halt in their self-driving initiatives.

      Now, a long-term strategic partnership has been established between Uber and Volkswagen, which will introduce the autonomous ID. Buzz vans on Uber's ride-hailing service, beginning in Los Angeles and extending to various U.S. locations.

      Testing of the ID. Buzz AD is expected to start later this year, with commercial rides predicted to commence in 2026. In the initial stages, the vans will include "human operators" to assist in refining the technology and ensuring safety. However, once the technology is fully developed and verified, the role of 'safety drivers' will be eliminated.

      If plans unfold smoothly, the two companies aim to deploy thousands of ID. Buzz AD vehicles over the next decade, marking a notable advancement that could help fill the gap left by the closure of Cruise.

      While testing with Uber is set to commence later this year, Volkswagen has been developing the ID. Buzz AD for several years. In 2022, they unveiled a prototype equipped with 14 cameras, 11 radar sensors, and five LiDAR sensors.

      Volkswagen’s mobility brand, MOIA, will supply the ID. Buzz AD and the autonomous driving technology for the collaboration, while Uber will manage other aspects of the service.

      Many questions remain, but Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi stated, “This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the advancement of autonomous mobility and underscores both Volkswagen's and Uber's commitment to shaping the future of transportation. We’re eager to launch in Los Angeles late next year.”