Pony.ai and Uber to Launch 2,000 Robotaxis in Four European Cities

Chinese autonomous vehicle manufacturer Pony.ai and Uber have announced plans to introduce 2,000 robotaxis across four cities in Europe, marking a significant expansion of their partnership. This initiative underscores the growing aspirations of both companies to secure a foothold in the emerging robotaxi market.

Over the past several years, Uber has collaborated with over 30 companies in the autonomous vehicle sector, including Pony.ai. Pony.ai has successfully launched operations in four Chinese cities and is actively working with local transportation authorities to extend its robotaxi services to European and Middle Eastern regions, including Qatar.

While specific deployment timelines and city names were not disclosed, the companies indicated that further details would be released in phases. The expanded partnership clarifies some operational terms, particularly regarding Pony.ai’s “joint-deployment model,” which aims for commercial scalability.

Under this arrangement, Pony.ai will supply the autonomous vehicle technology, while Uber will leverage its extensive ride-hailing platform. According to the companies, local providers may manage aspects of fleet maintenance, cleaning, and charging, and the robotaxi fleet ownership may vary by market.

Pony.ai and Uber initially partnered in May 2025, focusing on opportunities in the Middle East. Earlier this year, they shifted their attention to Europe, announcing plans to initiate a commercial robotaxi service in Zagreb, Croatia, in collaboration with local firm Verne.