Uber Technologies Inc. (NYSE:UBER) gained about 3.75% Wednesday morning after announcing a strategic collaboration with Zoox to introduce robotaxis on the Uber platform in Las Vegas and Los Angeles.
The rollout is expected to begin in Las Vegas this summer, with service planned to expand to Los Angeles in mid-2027. Riders using the Uber app will be able to request Zoox autonomous vehicles on eligible trips. Zoox will also continue operating its own ride-hailing app alongside the Uber integration in both cities.
Zoox robotaxis are purpose-built vehicles designed specifically for ride-hailing services rather than modified passenger cars. The agreement marks the first time Zoox has partnered with an external platform. The company operates as an independent subsidiary of Amazon.
“The Zoox robotaxi is unlike any other vehicle on the planet – it was purpose-built from the ground up to deliver an extraordinary experience,” said Dara Khosrowshahi. “Zoox’s commitment to safety and their advanced autonomous driving technology make them an ideal partner.”
Aicha Evans added that the collaboration represents “an opportunity to continue advancing the use of autonomous mobility in daily life.”
The partnership strengthens Uber’s push into autonomous mobility as the ride-hailing industry continues investing in self-driving technology. Zoox, headquartered in Foster City, California, focuses on developing fully autonomous ride-hailing services.