Uber, Lucid Motors, and Nuro unveiled their collaborative robotaxi at the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show, with TechCrunch receiving an exclusive preview. The vehicle, based on the Lucid Gravity SUV, integrates high-resolution cameras, solid-state lidar sensors, and radars into its body and roof-mounted halo. This project stems from a deal where Uber invested $300 million in Lucid and committed to purchasing 20,000 of Lucid's electric vehicles.
The companies announced Monday that the robotaxi is undergoing testing on public roads in preparation for a commercial launch in the San Francisco Bay Area later this year. The autonomous driving system is powered by Nvidia's Drive AGX Thor computer. The roof-mounted halo includes integrated LED lights to help passengers identify their vehicle, a feature similar to Waymo's Jaguar I-Pace SUVs.
Integrating the autonomous technology during the Gravity's manufacturing process at Lucid Motors' Casa Grande, Arizona factory is intended to save time and money. This approach contrasts with Waymo's method of retrofitting autonomous systems into existing Jaguar I-Pace vehicles after delivery.
The collaboration between Uber, Lucid, and Nuro represents a significant step in the development and deployment of autonomous vehicles for ride-hailing services. Uber's investment and commitment to purchasing Lucid EVs underscores its strategic focus on electrification and autonomous driving. Lucid Motors benefits from a major partnership that validates its technology and secures a substantial order for its electric vehicles. Nuro, known for its autonomous delivery vehicles, brings its expertise in robotics and autonomous systems to the project.
The robotaxi's planned commercial service in the San Francisco Bay Area will mark a key milestone in the evolution of autonomous transportation. The integration of advanced sensor technology, powerful computing capabilities, and purpose-built design reflects the industry's ongoing efforts to create safe, efficient, and accessible autonomous vehicles. The companies have not yet announced specific details regarding pricing or availability for the robotaxi service.
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