Uber partners with Pony.ai and Verne to debut Europe’s first robotaxi service in Zagreb, paving the way for a continent‑wide autonomous fleet. Learn more now!
Uber Technologies has sealed a partnership with Chinese autonomous‑driving firm Pony.ai and European startup Verne to launch the first commercial robotaxi service on the continent. The pilot will roll out in Zagreb, Croatia, with plans to expand across Europe and eventually into other international markets.
How the three‑way collaboration works
Pony.ai will supply the core self‑driving technology that powers the fleet. Verne, named after the famed sci‑fi author Jules Verne, will own and operate the vehicles on a day‑to‑day basis. Uber will integrate the service into its global ride‑hailing platform while also supporting Verne with a dedicated consumer app.
Roadmap for growth
The trio envisions a scalable robotaxi model that begins in Zagreb and later reaches other European cities. Within a few years, the partnership aims to grow the fleet to thousands of autonomous taxis, offering a new, driver‑less mobility option for commuters and visitors alike.
Investment and strategic backing
Beyond operational cooperation, Uber will take an equity stake in Verne, positioning the startup as a strategic partner to accelerate scaling efforts. This move complements Uber’s broader strategy of aligning with nearly two dozen autonomous‑vehicle companies worldwide, spanning robotaxis, freight transport, sidewalk delivery bots, and drones.
Current status and regulatory steps
Test runs are already underway on Zagreb’s streets, and preparations for a paid service are in progress. Verne is leading the licensing process with European regulators, coordinating the deployment of Pony.ai’s technology across both Verne’s and Uber’s platforms.
What this means for the autonomous‑vehicle market
The launch adds momentum to a rapidly evolving sector. Earlier this year, Alphabet’s Waymo announced a commercial robotaxi launch in London, underscoring growing demand for driverless transport solutions across major cities.
As Uber, Pony.ai, and Verne move forward, Zagreb could become the testing ground for the next generation of autonomous urban mobility, setting the stage for a continent‑wide rollout.