Uber’s aggressive push into autonomous transit involves a network of over 30 partners, with Pony.ai serving as a central pillar. The two companies, which first aligned in May 2025 to target Middle Eastern markets, have recently pivoted toward European deployment. This follows a successful launch in Zagreb, Croatia, where the companies operate an autonomous fleet alongside the startup Verne. While the specific ownership structure for the London operation remains undisclosed, the initiative mirrors the multi-partner model Uber employs globally.
In section Startups & Technology
Uber and Pony.ai to Pilot Robotaxi Fleet in London
Pony.ai’s Gen-7 vehicles are set to hit London streets for testing in the coming weeks, marking the latest expansion of Uber’s autonomous vehicle strategy. The ride-hailing giant is rapidly layering partnerships across international markets, aiming to secure a footprint in the driverless sector before the end of 2026.
Competition within London is intensifying as Uber diversifies its technology providers. Beyond Pony.ai, Uber has secured a significant stake in British startup Wayve, contributing to a massive $1.2 billion funding round earlier this year. With an additional $300 million investment contingent on local deployment, Uber is positioning itself to dominate the city’s robotaxi landscape. By 2026, the company expects to operate autonomous services across 15 global cities, balancing its efforts between U.S. and international markets while leveraging local expertise from firms like Baidu and WeRide in territories such as Dubai.
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