A Billion-Dollar Robotaxi Bet
Uber just announced a massive multi-hundred-million-dollar investment in two companies: Lucid and Nuro. Together, the three companies plan to launch over 20,000 autonomous Lucid Gravity SUVs starting in 2026. These robotaxis will run exclusively through Uber’s platform and will operate in major U.S. cities.
Luxury Meets Autonomy
The Lucid Gravity, a high-end electric SUV, will serve as the base for this robotaxi fleet. Each vehicle will be equipped with Level 4 autonomous driving systems designed by Nuro. This means the cars can operate without human drivers in specific environments. Lucid will integrate the necessary sensors and systems directly on their production line.
Nuro’s Pivot to Licensing
Nuro, once known for its low-speed delivery robots, is shifting to licensing its autonomous tech. This marks its first major deal since changing focus. Their autonomous systems have already logged over a million miles without major incidents. The new Gravity prototypes are currently being tested at Nuro’s proving grounds in Las Vegas.
Uber Wants to Own the AV Market
Uber’s move signals a push to dominate both the EV and AV space. With this deal, Uber gets a seat on Nuro’s board and deeper control over the future of robotaxis. By partnering with Lucid, Uber ensures these autonomous rides will feel more premium—likely fitting into their Uber Black tier.
High Stakes and High Hopes
Lucid and Nuro have both faced financial headwinds recently. Lucid’s deliveries remain modest, while Nuro has undergone layoffs. Still, this collaboration could shift the momentum. With Uber’s reach, Lucid’s luxury, and Nuro’s tech, the robotaxi future may finally be arriving—not with a whisper, but with a fleet.
What It Means
If this deployment succeeds, it may become one of the largest real-world applications of autonomous vehicles in history. For cities, commuters, and the entire industry, the race toward self-driving services just took a dramatic leap forward.
