WeRide, a global leader in autonomous driving technology, has formed a strategic partnership with Uber Technologies, Inc. to integrate WeRide’s autonomous vehicles into the Uber platform, with the initial launch set to take place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This partnership marks a significant milestone for both companies, as it brings autonomous vehicles one step closer to mainstream ride-hailing services, starting with Abu Dhabi later this year.
As part of this collaboration, a dedicated fleet of WeRide’s self-driving vehicles will be made available to Uber’s users. Riders using the Uber app will have the option to select an autonomous vehicle for their trip when booking a qualifying ride. This marks Uber’s first major venture into the world of autonomous mobility in the UAE, although the partnership does not include plans for expansion into the United States or China at this stage.
WeRide has already established a strong presence in the UAE, operating the country’s largest robotaxi fleet. Its services are currently accessible through the TXAI app, which offers the convenience of autonomous transport to local residents. With the introduction of WeRide’s vehicles on the Uber platform, more people will be able to experience the ease and innovation of driverless transportation in Abu Dhabi.
One of the key factors enabling WeRide’s rapid growth in the UAE was its achievement of securing the country’s first national license for self-driving vehicles. Awarded in July 2023, this license allows WeRide to not only test but also operate its autonomous vehicles on public roads across the entire nation, setting the stage for large-scale deployments in the future.
Tony Han, the founder and CEO of WeRide, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with Uber. “We are honored to collaborate with Uber and bring our cutting-edge autonomous driving technology to a broader audience,” Han said. “This partnership combines the strengths of both companies, allowing us to offer affordable, sustainable, and safe mobility solutions in global markets. Together, we are committed to shaping the future of transportation and expanding access to self-driving technology.”
Uber’s CEO, Dara Khosrowshahi, also shared his excitement about the collaboration. “Uber is thrilled to partner with WeRide on this innovative endeavor. The future of transportation is moving towards being shared, electric, and autonomous, and this partnership is a crucial step in that direction,” Khosrowshahi stated. “By working with leading companies like WeRide, we’re helping bring the benefits of autonomous technology to more cities around the world, creating a more efficient and environmentally friendly way for people to move.”
The partnership reflects both companies’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of mobility and advancing autonomous driving technology on a global scale. With the launch in Abu Dhabi, the collaboration is expected to open new possibilities for future ride-hailing services and promote the broader adoption of self-driving vehicles in the Middle East.
As autonomous vehicle technology continues to evolve, collaborations like this highlight the potential for widespread integration of autonomous driving into everyday life. Both WeRide and Uber aim to pioneer advancements in the sector, driving change that could redefine how people around the world experience transportation.
