Uber has announced a strategic partnership with British AI start-up Wayve to develop autonomous vehicles for its global ride-hailing network. The collaboration aims to integrate Wayve’s cutting-edge AI technology into vehicles, delivering Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities. This level of automation allows a vehicle to fully control driving in specific environments without human intervention.
As part of the partnership, Uber will also make an undisclosed investment in Wayve, extending the start-up’s recent Series C funding round, which raised $1.05 billion in May, led by SoftBank. The funding will accelerate Wayve’s work with global automakers to equip consumer vehicles with advanced driver assistance and automation features.
Wayve, known for its unique approach to autonomous vehicles through its Embodied AI technology, is focusing on creating a "general-purpose" driving AI that can operate any vehicle in any location. Unlike traditional AV systems, Wayve's AI does not rely on pre-mapped areas, allowing it to function beyond geofenced regions. This partnership is a significant move for both companies as they aim to lead in the fast-evolving autonomous driving industry.
Uber’s partnership with Wayve marks its latest step into autonomous technology, following recent collaborations with companies like Cruise and BYD. The ride-hailing giant is also pushing autonomous food deliveries and continues to expand its network of self-driving taxis across the globe.
Dara Khosrowshahi, Uber's CEO, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting the potential of Wayve's AI to help Uber achieve its vision of a future where vehicles are shared, electric, and autonomous.
