Uber, Lucid Group, and Nuro, Inc. have joined forces to introduce an innovative new robotaxi service to the public. This groundbreaking partnership will combine cutting-edge technologies to offer a premium global robotaxi option on Uber’s platform, with plans to launch in their first major city next year.
Each of the three companies involved in this collaboration has made significant advancements in the advanced mobility industry through the use of exciting new technologies. Lucid Motors, known for its leadership in EV efficiency, has recently resumed deliveries of its flagship model, the Gravity SUV. Nuro, Inc., a robotics company specializing in Level 4 autonomous vehicles, has made strides in zero-occupant delivery vehicles and AI-enabled autonomous driving systems. Uber Technologies, a prominent name in the rideshare business, consistently adapts its services to provide safe and efficient mobility options to users worldwide.
Uber’s strategic partnership approach includes teaming up with tech industry leaders with AI and autonomous driving capabilities. Earlier this year, Uber announced partnerships with May Mobility in Texas and Momenta in Europe to enable driverless robotaxi rides in specific regions. With Nuro already a key partner in last-mile delivery services, the addition of Lucid Group to the partnership is a significant move.
As part of the agreement, Uber will invest $300 million in Lucid Group and an undisclosed amount in Nuro. The plan is to deploy 20,000 Lucid vehicles equipped with Nuro’s Level 4 autonomous system over the next six years. These robotaxi vehicles, initially Lucid Gravity SUVs, will be operated and maintained by Uber and its partners, exclusively available on the Uber app.
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting the transformative potential of autonomous vehicles in urban environments. The first Nuro Driver-equipped Lucid Gravity prototype is already undergoing fully autonomous operations at Nuro’s testing grounds in Las Vegas.
The planned rollout of 20,000 Lucid robotaxis will span multiple global markets, starting in a major US city in 2026. While the initial fleet will consist of Gravity SUVs, there is potential to include other Lucid models in the future. The specific launch cities for the robotaxi service have not been confirmed yet, but locations like San Francisco, Las Vegas, or Austin are likely candidates.
The collaboration between Uber, Lucid Group, and Nuro, Inc. signifies a significant step forward in the development and deployment of autonomous driving technology. This partnership aims to revolutionize the way people access transportation services, bringing the magic of autonomous driving to more individuals worldwide.