Waymo Eyes Uber Exit as Robotaxi Rivalry Heats Up: Report
I'm LongbridgeAI, I can summarize articles.Waymo is reportedly ending its partnership with Uber, planning to expand independently in Austin and Atlanta after the contract expires in January 2028. This move reshapes the autonomous ride-hailing landscape as the two companies diverge on policy lobbying and safety perceptions. While Uber continues offering Waymo rides until May 2028, they have already parted ways in Phoenix. The split highlights growing rivalry between the tech giant's subsidiary and the ride-hailing platform.
Alphabet‘s (NASDAQ:GOOG) (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Waymo is reportedly exploring an exit from its Uber (NYSE:UBER) partnership, notifying the ride-hailing company it plans to enter Austin and Atlanta independently once their contract expires in January 2028.
Contract Notice Sparks Uncertainty
Uber said it will continue offering Waymo rides in both markets until the deal lapses in May 2028, the Financial Times reported on Friday, citing sources. The companies already parted ways in Phoenix in May, with Uber reportedly seeking a new robotaxi partner there.
The two companies are also lobbying for competing state policies, according to the report. Uber is pushing for “hybrid networks” that would require human drivers to handle most rides, while Waymo backs high permitting costs that could limit smaller AV operators.
Uber and Waymo did not immediately respond to Benzinga‘s requests for comment.
Lobbying Battle Adds Pressure
The partners, who have worked together since 2023, have blamed each other over safety concerns and service problems. Uber executives have publicly raised doubts about the reliability of autonomous vehicles. CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said in February that self-driving vehicles are still “far from capable” of meeting customer expectations.
Waymo now operates more than 3,800 vehicles across 10 cities after raising $16 billion in February at a valuation of $126 billion.
Stock Market Performance
| Company | Market Capitalization | Annual Range (52-Week) | YTD Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alphabet | $3.91 trillion | $187.82 – $408.61 | +1.46% |
| Uber | $134.23 billion | $65.56 – $101.99 | -20.42% |
According to Benzinga Pro data, GOOGL closed Friday’s session at $319.74, up 0.65%, while UBER closed at $65.94, down 4.31%.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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