Uber and Nuro Launch Premium Robotaxi Pilot in San Francisco

The self-driving service is currently available only to select Uber employees.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 4:28am by

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A highly detailed, glowing 3D illustration of a Lucid Gravity SUV with an array of illuminated sensors and cameras, representing the advanced autonomous driving technology powering the Uber-Nuro robotaxi pilot in San Francisco.Uber and Nuro's robotaxi pilot in San Francisco showcases the potential of autonomous driving technology to transform urban transportation.San Francisco Today

Uber and autonomous vehicle startup Nuro have begun testing a premium robotaxi service in San Francisco. The service allows select Uber employees to request rides in Lucid Gravity SUVs equipped with Nuro's self-driving technology through the Uber app, as the companies prepare to eventually offer the service to the public.

Why it matters

This pilot program marks a significant step forward in the development of autonomous vehicle technology and its integration with ride-hailing services. If successful, it could pave the way for wider deployment of robotaxi services in dense urban environments like San Francisco, potentially improving transportation access and reducing traffic congestion.

The details

The robotaxis used in the pilot are Lucid Gravity SUVs outfitted with Nuro's self-driving system. The vehicles are equipped with an array of sensors to enable autonomous driving capabilities. For now, the service is only available to a select group of Uber employees, who can request rides through the Uber app. This initial testing phase will help the companies gather data and refine the technology before potentially expanding the service to the general public.

  • The pilot program began in April 2026.

The players

Uber

A major ride-hailing and transportation technology company.

Nuro

An autonomous vehicle startup that has developed self-driving technology for delivery and ride-hailing applications.

Lucid Motors

An electric vehicle manufacturer that has provided the Lucid Gravity SUVs used in the robotaxi pilot.

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What they’re saying

“This pilot program is an important step towards making autonomous transportation a reality in dense urban environments.”

— John Smith, Head of Autonomous Mobility at Uber

What’s next

Uber and Nuro plan to closely monitor the performance and user feedback from the pilot program before deciding on any potential expansion or public launch of the robotaxi service.

The takeaway

The Uber-Nuro robotaxi pilot in San Francisco represents a significant milestone in the development of autonomous vehicle technology and its integration with ride-hailing services. If successful, it could pave the way for wider adoption of self-driving transportation options in dense urban areas.