Uber Technologies Inc. (NYSE:UBER) and Baidu Inc. (NASDAQ:BIDU) launched fully driverless Apollo Go robotaxis on Uber’s platform in Dubai on Thursday.
The launch marks the first deployment under the companies’ multiyear partnership. New Horizon Luxury Transport will operate the fleet.
Driverless Rides Available On Uber
Dubai riders who request UberX or Uber Comfort may now be matched with Baidu’s fully driverless Apollo Go vehicles. Users can also select the “Autonomous” option in the Uber app to increase their chances of getting a robotaxi.
The service initially covers select areas in Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah. The companies plan to expand the operating area.
The rollout uses Apollo Go’s sixth-generation RT6. The fully electric robotaxi carries up to three passengers and has more than 30 sensors. It also processes driving data onboard in real time.
Baidu said Apollo Go now operates across 28 cities worldwide. Its fleets have logged more than 350 million autonomous kilometers, including over 240 million kilometers without a human driver.
Uber Expands Autonomous Network
Dubai is the first market to launch under Uber and Baidu’s partnership. The companies plan to eventually deploy thousands of Apollo Go vehicles across Uber’s global network.
The expansion also supports Uber’s broader autonomous vehicle strategy. The company works with more than 30 autonomous vehicle partners.
“Launching in Dubai marks the first time our multi-partner vision comes to life on public roads,” said Sarfraz Maredia, Uber’s global head of autonomous.
Price Action: Baidu shares were up 0.34% at $93.19 and Uber Technologies shares were up 0.21% at $78.20 during premarket trading on Thursday, according to Benzinga Pro data.
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