Uber Launches Baidu Robotaxis in Dubai

Uber Technologies, Inc. announced the launch of Baidu, Inc.'s fully driverless Apollo Go vehicles on its ride-hailing platform in United Arab Emirates — Dubai, with New Horizon Luxury Transport serving as the fleet operator. The service uses Apollo Go's sixth-generation RT6, a fully electric robotaxi designed for fully driverless operations and equipped with more than 30 sensors. Initially available in select areas of Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah, the service plans to expand its operating territory. Riders can request an UberX or Uber Comfort and may be matched with an Apollo Go vehicle, or select a dedicated 'Autonomous' option in the Uber app. This launch marks the first market where Uber's multi-partner autonomous vehicle network has been deployed. Apollo Go has operations in 28 cities globally, with fleets having accumulated over 350 million autonomous kilometers, including over 240 million fully driverless autonomous kilometers. Uber stated that all autonomous vehicles must adhere to its Safety Guidelines before operating on the network. The company has more than 30 autonomous vehicle partners.