Apr 24, 2025 - Business

Uber to add Volkswagen robotaxis to its growing AV fleet

Joann Muller

Volkswagen ID. Buzz robotaxis will be available on Uber, starting in Los Angeles. Photo courtesy of VW

Volkswagen and Uber announced a long-term strategic partnership to deploy thousands of electric, autonomous ID. Buzz minivans on the ride-hailing network across multiple cities, starting in Los Angeles.

Why it matters: It's the latest in a series of global autonomous vehicle partnerships for Uber, which aims to blend robotaxis with human-driven vehicles on its network.

Between the lines: MOIA, a Volkswagen AG autonomous mobility brand, will provide the AV technology for the electric ID. Buzz, which is the reimagined version of VW's iconic Microbus popular among counterculture hippies in the 1960s and 1970s.

What's next: Testing is expected to begin later this year, with the first commercial launch expected in Los Angeles in 2026, initially with safety drivers onboard.

💭 Thought bubble: People love the ID. Buzz, winner of the World Car Design of the Year award and North American Utility of the Year.

The problem with using it as a robotaxi, however, is that many — myself included — think it's difficult to enter and exit.

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Uber to add Volkswagen robotaxis to its growing AV fleet

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