TLDR
- Lucid EV platform and Nuro autonomy power Uber-ready robotaxi for 2026 rollout
- Production-intent design seats six with flexible, group-friendly layouts
- Level-4 stack on NVIDIA Thor drives perception, prediction, and control
- Active Bay Area road testing, simulation, and trials boost reliability
- Uber app integration personalizes rides and scales service beyond the Bay
Lucid, Nuro, and Uber revealed their next-generation robotaxi as they moved toward a planned 2026 rollout. The companies introduced production-intent vehicles and confirmed active on-road testing, which started last month. Moreover, they outlined new features that will support the service when it launches in the Bay Area.
Lucid’s Vehicle Platform Anchors the New Robotaxi
Lucid presented the redesigned platform that forms the base of the robotaxi and emphasized its integration with autonomous hardware. The vehicle carries a sensor array using high-resolution cameras, lidar, and radars for full-circle perception. Furthermore, Lucid included a roof-mounted halo with LEDs that signal status updates and assist riders during pickup.
The company structured the interior to support up to six passengers and to allow flexible layouts. The cabin features interactive screens for climate settings, music, and contact tools that improve the autonomous ride experience. Additionally, in-vehicle displays show real-time driving visuals, planned routes, and standard maneuvers.
Lucid also prepared its Arizona plant for final production once validation is complete. The company plans to align manufacturing schedules with Nuro and Uber to ensure a smooth launch. Consequently, Lucid expects production to begin later this year and support broad deployment.
Nuro Leads Autonomy and Testing for the Robotaxi
Nuro advanced its level-4 autonomous system through expanded testing programs that began on public roads in the Bay Area. Its engineers supervised prototype vehicles and monitored performance in mixed traffic conditions. Moreover, Nuro combined these tests with simulation and closed-course trials to confirm reliability.
The autonomy stack runs on NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Thor to support high-speed processing and system integration. The compute platform manages perception, prediction, and control functions required for safe robotaxi operations. Additionally, the system uses a foundation model that merges advanced AI with structured safety logic.
Nuro stated that its long development timeline strengthened its validation strategy and improved operational confidence. The company continues to refine critical capabilities before service deployment. Therefore, it expects the robotaxi to meet performance targets for commercial use later this year.
Uber Integrates the Robotaxi Into Its Global Ride Network
Uber worked with Lucid and Nuro to design the rider interface that will appear in the new robotaxi. The experience allows passengers to personalize rides with simple controls throughout the trip. Moreover, the interface helps riders view route updates and access support tools.
Uber plans to introduce the service through its app in the Bay Area before expanding to other regions. The company aims to create a scalable model that combines electric mobility with autonomous technology. Additionally, Uber expects the robotaxi to support group travel with spacious layouts and luggage capacity.
Uber will highlight the robotaxi at CES 2026 inside NVIDIA’s showcase at the Fontainebleau Hotel. The display will run from January 5 to January 8. Consequently, attendees will see the production-intent design and preview the in-cabin experience.
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