Baidu & Uber Accomplice to Launch Hundreds of Robotaxis

Uber has been doing its finest to remain alive and on prime within the face of a transition towards absolutely autonomous robotaxis. The ride-hailing app has been partnering with robotaxi leaders to get an unique launch function in metropolis after metropolis. In Austin, you’ll be able to solely get a Waymo by Uber. In Atlanta, it’s the identical factor. In Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and shortly 13 extra cities, you may get a WeRide robotaxi by Uber. Uber can be reportedly going to supply VW ID. Buzz robotaxis in Los Angeles inside the subsequent yr. Now, although, we’ve one other large robotaxi announcement from Uber — it’s partnering with self-driving and search-engine big Baidu from China. That’s an enormous step ahead.

Apollo Go’s 6-generation robotaxi will probably be obtainable by Uber initially in some Asia and Center East markets. The choice is meant to launch someday earlier than the tip of the yr.

The partnership is about to be a multi-year partnership, and hundreds of Baidu’s robotaxis will probably be deployed by Uber.

“We’re dedicated to bringing the good thing about autonomous driving know-how to extra individuals in additional markets, and this partnership with Uber represents a significant milestone in deploying our know-how on a worldwide scale,” mentioned Baidu cofounder, chairman, and CEO Robin Li.

Apollo Go has offered greater than 11 million robotaxi rides — as of Might. It’s obtainable in 15 cities in the meanwhile, and greater than 1,000 robotaxis are on the highway. In Might, the corporate additionally introduced plans to launch in Switzerland, with an workplace being arrange there.