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Uber to acquire Berlin-based chauffeur hailing app to ramp up its luxury travel efforts
Uber is acquiring Blacklane, a Berlin-based chauffeur hailing app, to expand its presence in the luxury travel sector. The deal, which is subject to regulatory approval and expected to close by the end of 2026, will integrate Blacklane's global network of independent chauffeur services into Uber's offerings. This move follows Uber's recent launch of its own invite-only luxury service, Uber Elite.
Uber and Pony.ai are testing a robotaxi service for Europe
Uber and Pony.ai are testing a robotaxi service in Zagreb, Croatia, utilizing BAIC Motor's Arcfox Alpha T5 vehicles equipped with Pony.ai's autonomous driving system. The service will initially be available on Verne's app before integrating with Uber, with plans to expand to other European cities and eventually deploy thousands of robotaxis globally. This initiative is part of Uber's broader strategy to increase driverless ride offerings, including other partnerships and pilot programs in Tokyo and Las Vegas.
Wheely, an on-demand chauffeur app, makes its US debut in NYC
London-based chauffeur app Wheely has launched its services in New York City, marking its US debut. The company offers premium transportation options, including Mercedes-Benz S-Class vehicles and airport pickup services, targeting business executives and VIPs. Wheely plans to expand to five major US cities within three years.
Rivian will provide 50,000 robotaxis to Uber in a deal worth $1.25 billion
Rivian and Uber have announced a significant partnership where Rivian will supply Uber with 50,000 robotaxis, valued at $1.25 billion. The deal begins with Uber acquiring 10,000 Rivian R2 robotaxis for deployment by 2028, with plans to expand to 25 major cities by 2031. This collaboration aims to accelerate autonomous vehicle plans for both companies.
Uber robotaxi rides are now available for passengers in Las Vegas
Uber has launched its robotaxi service in Las Vegas, allowing passengers to hail autonomous Hyundai Ioniq 5 EVs through the Uber app. Riders will be notified and can opt out of a robotaxi if matched, with options for human support available. The service, piloted since 2022, plans to remove safety drivers by year-end and expand city-wide, with a similar pilot planned for Tokyo in late 2026.
Uber is shooting for even more upscale clientele with Uber Elite
Uber has launched Uber Elite, an invite-only luxury ride service targeting executives and frequent travelers. The service features professional chauffeurs, new luxury vehicles, and premium amenities like bottled water and mints, with options for sparkling water or champagne. Initially available in Los Angeles and San Francisco, Uber Elite aims to provide an elevated experience through the Uber app, Uber Reserve, and Uber for Business.
Uber is piloting a robotaxi service in Tokyo
Uber is piloting a robotaxi service in Tokyo starting in late 2026, in partnership with UK startup Wayve and Nissan. The service will utilize Nissan Leaf electric vehicles equipped with Wayve's AI Driver technology, initially with trained drivers present. This initiative is part of a larger plan by Wayve and Uber to expand robotaxi services to over 10 cities globally.
NVIDIA- and Uber-backed Nuro is testing autonomous vehicles in Tokyo
Nuro, a self-driving startup backed by NVIDIA, Toyota, and Uber, has begun testing its autonomous vehicles on the streets of Tokyo. The company plans to launch a robotaxi service with Uber and Lucid in San Francisco this year. Tokyo's complex urban environment presents a significant test for Nuro's autonomous driving systems as they aim for Level 4 autonomy.
Uber expands its program that helps pair women riders and drivers
Uber has expanded its "Women Preferences" feature nationwide, allowing women riders and drivers to opt for same-gender pairings. This feature, previously tested in several cities and globally since 2019, aims to enhance safety. Lyft also offers a similar feature nationwide.