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Uber and Chinese Self-Driving Tech Startup Join Forces to Introduce Robotaxis in UAE
Uber and WeRide partner to introduce self-driving vehicles to the UAE. WeRide secures the first national license for self-driving vehicles in the UAE. Uber expands partnerships with Waymo and Cruise for robotaxi integration.
This collaboration marks WeRide's first venture with a global ride-hailing service, signifying a significant step for the company to expand its operations beyond China. Simultaneously, Uber is progressing towards integrating robotaxis into its platform, following recent partnerships with Alphabet's Waymo and General Motors' Cruise.
Earlier this month, Uber broadened its collaboration with Waymo to introduce robotaxis in Austin and Atlanta, USA. In August, the ride-hailing giant also teamed up with General Motors' Cruise, planning to offer autonomous vehicles on its platform from next year. The partnership between Uber and WeRide is scheduled to kick off in Abu Dhabi later this year.
WeRide has been granted the prestigious distinction of holding the UAE's first and only national license for self-driving vehicles. This license enables the Chinese company to conduct testing and operate robotaxis on public roads throughout the country. Despite initial plans to go public in the United States with a valuation of up to US$5 billion, WeRide's IPO has faced delays as the firm works on finalising the necessary documentation for the listing.
In a related development, the Biden administration recently proposed restrictions that would prohibit Chinese automakers from testing self-driving cars on US roads. These restrictions would also extend to vehicle software and hardware produced by other foreign adversaries of the US, including Russia.
Uber and WeRide partner to introduce self-driving vehicles to the UAE.
WeRide secures the first national license for self-driving vehicles in the UAE.
Uber expands partnerships with Waymo and Cruise for robotaxi integration.
Source: REUTERS