Home / Technology / Uber Launches Robotaxis in Dallas, Safety Driver Included
Uber Launches Robotaxis in Dallas, Safety Driver Included
3 Dec
Summary
- Uber and Avride have started a robotaxi service in Dallas.
- The service currently requires a human safety operator behind the wheel.
- Uber plans to expand autonomous vehicles to 10 cities by end of 2026.
Uber customers in Dallas can now hail Avride-branded robotaxis, marking a new phase in autonomous ride-sharing. The initial service operates within a 9-square-mile area of downtown Dallas and includes a crucial human safety operator behind the wheel. This collaboration between Uber and Avride, an Austin-based startup, introduces a fleet of all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 vehicles equipped with Avride's self-driving technology.
This Dallas launch is part of Uber's broader strategy to integrate autonomous vehicles across its network. The ride-hailing giant has secured 20 partnerships with AV companies and aims to have autonomous vehicles available in at least 10 cities by the end of 2026. Future plans include expanding AV services to cities like Arlington, Texas, Dubai, London, Los Angeles, Munich, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Initially, Avride will manage its own fleet, with Uber gradually taking over daily operations such as maintenance and charging. Riders using UberX, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric may be matched with a robotaxi, with costs equivalent to human-driven rides. Users can opt-in to increase their chances of securing a robotaxi and have the option to switch to a human-driven ride upon arrival.
