Hey followers! Today, let’s dive into some exciting news about the future of transport. Imagine cruising in a sleek, self-driving electric microbus—sounds cool, right? Well, that’s exactly what Uber and Volkswagen are cooking up for U.S. cities.

Volkswagen of America and Uber revealed a bold plan to roll out a robotaxi service using autonomous VW ID. BUZZ microbuses. The goal? Launching in multiple cities over the next decade, starting with Los Angeles by late 2026. Right now, the fleet won’t drive itself without humans—there will be safety operators on board as they put the tech through its paces.

These self-driving vans are powered by Volkswagen’s subsidiary, ADMT, which has been testing already and will begin more extensive testing in Los Angeles later this year. The challenge? Navigating complex California regulations and securing necessary permits. Once they pass the hurdles, these microbuses will test the waters before going fully driverless in 2027. VW and Uber plan to keep the public informed as the project advances.

Volkswagen isn’t just dreaming of autonomous rides; they’re actively testing and developing their tech. Since July 2023, ADMT has been testing self-driving ID Buzz vans in Austin with Mobileye’s assistance. Unlike earlier partnerships, VW shifted gears from working with startup Argo to collaborating with Mobileye, focusing on vehicle technology and fleet management.

What makes this partnership stand out? It’s Volkswagen’s statement that they’re shaping the future of mobility—blending high-volume manufacturing with innovative autonomous tech. Uber, with its broad network of AV collaborations, is a key partner here, integrating their efforts to lead the ride-hailing industry into autonomous vehicles.

Though still in development, this project marks a significant step forward for autonomous electric vehicle deployment. The upcoming pilot in Los Angeles will pave the way for broader adoption, potentially transforming urban transportation with safer, more efficient microbuses.