Uber and Pony.ai Prepare to Roll Out 2,000 Robotaxis Throughout Europe

Chinese autonomous vehicle manufacturer Pony AI has partnered with Uber to roll out 2,000 robotaxis in four European cities as part of their expanded collaboration.

This development reflects the growing aspirations of both companies to secure a stake in the burgeoning robotaxi market. In recent years, Uber has worked with over 30 firms in the autonomous vehicle sector, including Pony.ai. On the other hand, Pony.ai has successfully initiated operations in four Chinese cities and has formed alliances with local transportation authorities to support the deployment of its robotaxis in Europe and the Middle East, including Qatar.

While Uber and Pony.ai have not provided a timeline for the rollout of these robotaxis or named specific launch cities, they indicated that more information will be shared gradually. The expanded partnership appears to have clarified several aspects, especially regarding Pony.ai’s “joint-deployment model,” which is now progressing toward achieving commercial scalability.

In this framework, the Guangzhou-based company will supply the autonomous vehicle technology, while Uber will leverage its vast ride-hailing platform. According to the companies, fleet management tasks—including maintenance, cleaning, and charging—may be handled by a local service provider, and ownership of the robotaxi fleet could vary by market.

Uber and Pony.ai first collaborated in May 2025, with a focus on the Middle East. Earlier this year, they redirected their efforts toward Europe, aiming to launch a commercial robotaxi service in Zagreb, Croatia, in partnership with the local firm Verne.