Volkswagen challenges Waymo with launch of electric ID. Buzz autonomous robotaxi fleet in Los Angeles

AI Summary

Volkswagen's subsidiary, MOIA, will launch its ID. Buzz AD autonomous vehicles in Los Angeles in 2026, partnering with Uber. This is part of a plan to deploy thousands of electric robotaxis across the US over the next decade. The ID. Buzz AD, equipped with Mobileye's autonomous driving technology, will offer Level 4 autonomy. Testing begins in late 2025 with a commercial launch slated for 2026. A European rollout is also planned. This move puts Volkswagen in direct competition with Waymo, which currently operates a smaller fleet of autonomous taxis in several US cities.