A new era in urban transport
The Spanish capital, Madrid, is about to experience a significant change in its transport system. By the end of 2026, users will be able to request autonomous taxis through the popular Uber app, thanks to an innovative collaboration between the technology company WeRide and Uber. This project will mark the beginning of the first commercial pilot of driverless vehicles in Spain.
The announcement was made by both companies, who highlighted the importance of the support received from the Government of the Community of Madrid. This alliance not only represents a technological advancement but also a commitment to modernising urban transport in one of the most dynamic cities in Europe.
The rollout will begin with an initial phase where autonomous vehicles will have safety operators on board. This measure is common in pilot projects and aims to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the service while assessing the performance of the technology. Details about the specific areas where this service will begin operating have not yet been revealed.
As the necessary operational and regulatory requirements are met, WeRide and Uber plan to expand their fleet to reach hundreds of robotaxis. The long-term vision is to offer a fully autonomous service covering the main urban areas of Madrid, similar to the model already successfully implemented in cities like Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
This advancement not only promises to transform how Madrilenians move around the city but also represents a step towards a more sustainable future. The integration of autonomous vehicles could significantly reduce the polluting emissions associated with traditional transport. With this initiative, Madrid positions itself as a pioneer in Europe in adopting advanced technologies to improve urban mobility.
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