Dara Hosrowshahi outlined Uber's strategy: most trips will be performed by robots within 20 years

Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi shared in the Diary of a CEO podcast the company’s long-term vision for autonomous transportation development. According to his forecasts, robotaxis will become the primary method of fulfilling orders on the Uber platform in 15-20 years. This statement reflects the ambitious plans of the tech giant to transform the mobility industry and strengthen its position in the rapidly growing autonomous services segment.

Dara Khosrowshahi on the Need for a Systematic Approach to Autonomy

During the podcast, CEO Dara Khosrowshahi emphasized that converting most of Uber’s fleet into robotaxis is a process that requires balanced development across multiple areas. He noted that the company operates in the physical world, not a virtual environment, which imposes additional requirements for project implementation. Scaling the autonomous fleet is impossible without regulatory approval, achieving the necessary technological level, and developing supporting infrastructure.

Khosrowshahi revealed key components of the comprehensive strategy: improving sensor systems, optimizing machine learning algorithms, producing reliable vehicles, and developing an adequate regulatory framework. He also stressed that the transition to robotaxis will not happen in the near future, as all necessary conditions need time to mature.

As part of its strategy, Uber recently established Uber Autonomous Solutions, a division that coordinates global initiatives for deploying autonomous taxis and integrates various technological areas of the company.

Intensified Competition: Waymo, Tesla, and Other Market Players Accelerate Deployment

Alongside Uber’s ambitions, the autonomous vehicle segment attracts the attention of other major players. Tesla, led by Elon Musk, aims to deploy the largest fleet of self-driving cars, betting on expanding testing and investing heavily in artificial intelligence and machine learning. The company has chosen a unique approach, relying primarily on computer vision (cameras) systems, unlike its competitors.

Waymo—an Alphabet Inc. subsidiary—adopts an alternative approach, focusing on developing systems that surpass human capabilities in vehicle control. Recently, the company submitted a statement to Congress denying concerns about remote control of its robotaxis on U.S. roads. Waymo confirmed that remote personnel only provide recommendations, while control remains fully under onboard autonomous systems. The company maintains remote support centers in several U.S. states and the Philippines, employing about 70 operators.

Zoox—another company actively developing autonomous services in specific American cities—also contributes to expanding the autonomous transportation ecosystem.

Robotaxi Market: Long-Term Prospects and Real Challenges

According to a Goldman Sachs report forecast for 2025, the autonomous taxi market in the United States will experience a period of accelerated growth in the coming years. However, by 2030, this segment will only constitute a small share of the overall ride-sharing market, indicating a gradual adoption of the technology.

This reality confirms Dara Khosrowshahi’s position on the long-term nature of the transformation process. Dominance of robotaxis on the Uber platform will require not only technological breakthroughs but also the creation of a favorable regulatory environment, infrastructure adaptation, and public trust in autonomous systems.