Volkswagen Group of America’s autonomous driving division, ADMT, has announced a new strategic partnership with Uber Technologies to bring self-driving, all-electric vehicles to U.S. roads. The collaboration will center around deploying a fleet of autonomous ID. Buzz AD vans in multiple American cities, beginning with Los Angeles.
The two companies aim to kick off vehicle testing later this year, with plans to launch commercial ride-hailing services by 2026. During the early stages of the rollout, the ID. Buzz AD vehicles will operate with trained human safety drivers onboard to monitor operations and provide assistance if needed. The pace of expansion will depend on securing necessary regulatory approvals at federal and local levels.
Volkswagen’s autonomous tech will be supplied by MOIA, the group’s mobility and software services branch. MOIA will be responsible for both the development of the autonomous systems onboard the ID. Buzz AD and the integration of these vehicles into Uber’s ride-hailing network.
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi described the partnership as a pivotal move for the industry. “This collaboration represents a major leap toward a future of safer, cleaner, and more accessible transportation,” he said. “We’re excited to work with Volkswagen to bring autonomous mobility closer to reality.”
Volkswagen sees this initiative as more than just a technological advancement. According to Kjell Gruner, President and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America, the move reflects the company’s broader vision of transforming how people experience mobility. “The ID. Buzz is more than an electric van—it’s a symbol of innovation. Through our alliance with Uber, we’re bringing this next-generation vehicle to life in ways that will benefit city dwellers and commuters alike.”
Christian Senger, CEO of Volkswagen Autonomous Mobility, echoed this enthusiasm, saying the company is evolving beyond traditional car manufacturing. “We’re actively shaping what the future of movement looks like. Teaming up with Uber helps us accelerate that journey and demonstrate the real-world potential of autonomous driving technology.”
The ID. Buzz AD, modeled after Volkswagen’s legendary Microbus, blends nostalgic design with state-of-the-art electric and autonomous capabilities. By pairing it with Uber’s vast platform, the companies are aiming to create a scalable, user-friendly autonomous ride-hailing service.
This partnership highlights a shared commitment between two industry leaders to rethink urban transportation. As cities grapple with congestion, emissions, and the growing demand for convenient mobility options, autonomous electric vehicles could offer a transformative solution.
If all goes according to plan, millions of Americans could soon be hailing a ride in a driverless ID. Buzz—ushering in a new chapter in both companies’ push toward sustainable, tech-driven mobility.
