Competition has arrived for Tesla! Lucid, Nuro, and Uber have announced the launch of a next-generation global premium robotaxi program, which will operate exclusively through the Uber transportation platform. This new service will bring the magic of autonomous driving to more people around the world. We’ll tell you what it’s like, when it will launch, and how much it will cost to ride in one of these units.
When will the Lucid, Nuro, and Uber robotaxi launch?
The new robotaxi service is expected to launch at the end of 2026; however, the companies stated that it will initially be available only in one of the major cities in the United States. The new vehicle will likely reach more parts of the world in the future, as Uber plans to deploy 20,000 or more Lucid vehicles equipped with Nuro Driver over the course of six years.
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What is the Lucid, Nuro, and Uber robotaxi like?
The new robotaxi is transforming the future of autonomous transportation by combining the strengths of three innovation leaders: Lucid Motors, Nuro, and Uber. This next-gen vehicle is built on the software architecture of the Lucid Gravity, known for its efficiency, power, and range, and on the Level 4 autonomous driving system of Nuro Driver, which has proven to be reliable, safe, and scalable. To this is added Uber’s vast global network and fleet management experience, which will help integrate the robotaxi seamlessly into its platform.
The vehicles will be owned by Uber or its fleet partners and will be available exclusively through the Uber app. The first prototype of the Lucid-Nuro robotaxi is already operating autonomously on a closed course in Las Vegas, marking a major milestone in its development. Thanks to the advanced technology of the Lucid Gravity, including its electric platform and redundant control system, this robotaxi is designed to travel long distances without frequent charging: its EPA-estimated range is up to 450 miles.
The Nuro Driver system will integrate automotive-grade hardware and artificial intelligence software directly into Lucid’s assembly line. This will allow for quick and secure updates before the vehicles go into operation with Uber. Additionally, Nuro will rigorously test the robotaxi’s safety in simulated and real environments, ensuring a reliable, cost-effective, and safe service for millions of users around the globe.
How much will a ride in Uber’s robotaxi cost?
The exact cost of using the robotaxi developed by Lucid, Nuro, and Uber has not yet been determined, but it is expected that the price will be competitive with currently available ride services. Currently, ridesharing services cost users an average of around $3.40 per mile, so the new robotaxi is expected to stay within that range—or even below it—to attract a broad audience.
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What is Tesla’s robotaxi like?
The Tesla robotaxi, known as the Cybercab, is a fully autonomous, all-electric vehicle designed to transport passengers without human intervention. Unlike conventional cars, the Cybercab has no steering wheel or pedals and relies entirely on autonomous driving technology.
Its futuristic design, inspired by the Cybertruck, features gull-wing doors and space for two passengers, offering a minimalist and high-tech experience. Controlled via a mobile app, the Cybercab will use inductive chargers, eliminating the need for cables.
How much will a ride in Tesla’s Robotaxi cost?
Elon Musk has estimated an operating cost of just 12 cents per kilometer (about 20 cents per mile), which could drastically reduce transportation costs and make urban travel more affordable for the general public.
