Uber Launches Robotaxi Service in Dallas with Avride

Uber Technologies launched its commercial robotaxi service in Dallas on Wednesday, partnering with autonomous vehicle developer Avride to offer rides in a nine-square-mile area covering downtown, Uptown, Turtle Creek and Deep Ellum. The service marks the first operational rollout from a partnership the companies announced last year, with initial operations including human safety drivers aboard the vehicles.

Riders can access the robotaxis by requesting an UberX, Uber Comfort or Uber Comfort Electric trip through the Uber app, where they may be automatically matched with an Avride vehicle at no extra cost and under the same pricing as human-driven rides. Users have the option to accept the match or switch to a traditional vehicle, and those interested in trying the service can adjust their ride preferences in the app's settings to increase their chances of being paired with a robotaxi. Once a robotaxi arrives, passengers use the app to unlock the doors, access the trunk for luggage and start the trip. If any issues arise during the ride, riders can contact support directly through the app.

The fleet consists of modified Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric vehicles equipped with Avride's...