Uber Partners with Pony.ai for Zagreb Robotaxi Service, Eyeing 3,000-Vehicle Fleet
Uber will integrate Pony.ai’s first commercial robotaxi service in Zagreb, marking Europe’s debut of autonomous ride-hailing via Uber’s platform. Pony.ai plans to double its robotaxi fleet to over 3,000 units across 20 cities this year and delivered a $75.5 million quarterly profit on sixfold robotaxi revenue growth.
1. Strategic Partnership Details
Uber has struck a deal to integrate Pony.ai’s autonomous robotaxis into its ride-hailing app in Zagreb. Croatian startup Verne will manage operations, creating a scalable framework for recurring revenue streams through local commercial services.
2. Fleet Expansion Plan
Pony.ai aims to expand its robotaxi fleet from 1,446 to over 3,000 vehicles across more than 20 cities by year-end. Nearly half of the new vehicles will be deployed in overseas markets, bolstering Uber’s autonomous network.
3. Financial Milestones and Performance
In its first profitable quarter, Pony.ai reported a $75.5 million net profit and a sixfold increase in robotaxi fare revenue year-on-year. The company achieved unit-level profitability in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, suggesting improved economics for Uber’s autonomous rollout.
4. Implications for Uber’s Growth
This partnership accelerates Uber’s entry into commercial autonomous services in Europe, potentially reducing ride costs and boosting long-term margins. Successful integration in Zagreb could serve as a blueprint for expansion into other key markets.