In what marks a transformative moment for autonomous transportation, Uber, Lucid Motors, and Nuro jointly unveiled their production-ready robotaxi at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026 on January 5, announcing that San Francisco Bay Area residents will be able to hail self-driving rides later this year.
The robotaxi, based on Lucid's luxury Gravity SUV platform, represents an unprecedented collaboration between three industry leaders: Lucid providing the electric vehicle hardware, Nuro contributing its proven autonomous driving technology, and Uber offering its massive ride-hailing network and user experience expertise.
The vehicle features an impressive sensor array including high-resolution cameras, solid-state lidar sensors, and radar units positioned throughout the body. A distinctive roof-mounted "halo" houses additional sensors and integrated LED lights designed to help passengers identify their assigned vehicle in busy pickup areas.
Powering the autonomous system is Nvidia's Drive AGX Thor computing platform, specifically designed for self-driving vehicles. Nuro, which previously deployed autonomous delivery vehicles, developed the driving system that will navigate San Francisco's challenging streets.
Autonomous on-road testing began in December 2025, marking a critical milestone ahead of the planned public launch. The companies report that testing has progressed smoothly, with the vehicles demonstrating reliable performance in real-world urban conditions.
Inside the robotaxi, passengers will find interactive screens allowing them to adjust climate settings, control music, contact Uber support, and request the vehicle to pull over. The displays also provide real-time visualizations showing what the robotaxi's sensors detect and its planned route, including upcoming maneuvers.
The Gravity-based robotaxi can accommodate up to six passengers, making it suitable for families and groups. The spacious interior leverages Lucid's reputation for luxury, offering a premium autonomous riding experience.
The partnership's ambitions extend far beyond San Francisco. Uber, Lucid, and Nuro plan to deploy 20,000 or more robotaxis across dozens of U.S. and international markets. Uber has invested $300 million in Lucid and committed to purchasing 20,000 vehicles to support this expansion.
Production of the robotaxi is expected to begin at Lucid's Arizona manufacturing facility later in 2026, pending final validation of the autonomous systems. The factory, which currently produces Lucid's Air sedan and Gravity SUV, will dedicate production capacity to meet the robotaxi demand.
This announcement intensifies competition in the autonomous ride-hailing space, where Waymo and Cruise have already established operations. However, the Uber-Lucid-Nuro alliance brings unique advantages: Uber's dominant market position and customer base, Lucid's cutting-edge EV technology, and Nuro's autonomous driving expertise proven through millions of delivery miles.
For Uber, the robotaxi represents a path toward profitability that has long eluded ride-hailing companies burdened by driver costs. For Lucid, it provides a guaranteed high-volume customer as the luxury EV maker works to scale production. For Nuro, the partnership validates its technology for passenger transportation after years focused on goods delivery.
Industry analysts view the San Francisco launch as a pivotal test. The city's dense urban environment, steep hills, and unpredictable traffic conditions present significant challenges for autonomous systems. Success there could accelerate regulatory approval and consumer acceptance in other markets.
The companies have not disclosed specific pricing for robotaxi rides but indicated fares would be competitive with traditional Uber services, potentially offering savings during off-peak hours when autonomous vehicles can operate more efficiently than human drivers.
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