Volkswagen ADMT, the autonomous mobility subsidiary of Volkswagen Group of America, and Uber Technologies have announced a strategic partnership to deploy a fleet of all-electric, fully autonomous ID. Buzz AD vehicles in multiple US markets over the next decade, starting in Los Angeles, California.
“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,” said Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber.
The companies state that testing will begin toward the end of this year, with commercial operations planned for 2026 with rides offered on the Uber platform. During the initial phases, ID. Buzz AD vehicles will include human safety operators to monitor performance and assist as needed. Progress would depend on obtaining all necessary regulatory approvals.
The autonomous technology will be provided by Volkswagen autonomous mobility brand MOIA; this will include both the ID. Buzz AD vehicles and the supporting software systems for integration into the Uber platform.
“Volkswagen believes that mobility is transformational. Our partnership with Uber is the next step for us to realize this vision and unleash the potential of autonomous mobility,” said Kjell Gruner, president and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. “Through our work with Uber, we’ll introduce the ID. Buzz, the reimagined version of the iconic Microbus in all-electric form, to a growing number of riders in the years to come.”
“Volkswagen is not just a car manufacturer—we are shaping the future of mobility, and our collaboration with Uber accelerates that vision,” added Christian Senger, CEO of Volkswagen Autonomous Mobility.
In related news, the Volkswagen Group recently unveiled its first proprietary AI-powered, highly automated driving system, which uses an efficient system-on-chip with high computing power to enable “smooth, rapid responses to a wide range of driving scenarios”, the auto maker says. Click here to read the full story.