Uber‑Waymo robotaxi rivalry

In mid‑July 2026, Washington D.C. introduced a robotaxi bill that would impose steep entry fees and insurance requirements on autonomous‑vehicle operators. Uber condemned the proposal, arguing it would favor Waymo and marginalise human drivers, while Waymo welcomed the clearer regulatory framework. The dispute highlighted a broader contest over the future of AI‑driven transport in U.S. cities.

Two weeks later, the rivalry intensified as reports emerged that Waymo was considering ending its 2023 robotaxi partnership with Uber and launching its own services in the shared markets as early as January 2028. Uber’s heavy investment in robotaxi ventures faced pressure, with its share price falling sharply following the news. Both companies intensified lobbying over robotaxi regulations, each blaming the other for safety and service‑quality concerns. The potential split threatens Uber’s strategy to rebuild autonomous‑driving capabilities after selling its internal AV unit in 2020.