Autonomous Uber Rides Are Coming to LA, and They’re in VW’s Iconic All-Electric ID. Buzz

Your Uber rides could soon be in the modern, electric version of one of the world’s most iconic vans — sans driver. Uber partnered with Volkswagen Group of America’s autonomous mobility arm, Volkswagen ADMT, to launch a commercial robotaxi service in the United States. Starting in Los Angeles in 2026, you can hail a ride from Volkswagen’s all-electric, autonomous ID. Buzz on Uber, with plans for nationwide expansion over the next decade.

The collaboration reflects a shared ambition: to make autonomous ride-hailing a scalable, commercial reality.

“Volkswagen is not just a car manufacturer—we are shaping the future of mobility,” Christian Senger, CEO of Volkswagen Autonomous Mobility, said in a press release. Uber’s CEO Dara Khosrowshahi called the deal a “significant milestone” in advancing autonomous transport solutions.

At the center of the project is the ID. Buzz AD, a long-wheelbase, fully electric reimagining of the iconic Microbus. Outfitted with Volkswagen’s autonomous driving technology, the vehicle seats at least seven passengers, making it purpose-built for ride-hailing.

Testing of the ID. Buzz AD is expected to begin in late 2025. Initially, human safety operators will be present in all vehicles. A transition to fully driverless service is anticipated by 2027, contingent on approvals from California’s Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Utilities Commission.

Volkswagen and Uber intend to expand the fleet to “thousands” of vehicles across multiple US markets by 2035.

Uber’s partnership with Volkswagen is the latest in a series of strategic AV collaborations. The company is actively working with over 14 autonomous mobility providers and has already launched robotaxi pilots with Waymo in Phoenix and other cities, including LA. Self-driving cars are already proving their value in making it easier for tourists to explore cities.