Uber and Momenta to Test Self-Driving Cars in Munich in 2026
Uber and Shanghai-based Momenta are set to begin Level 4 autonomous vehicle testing in Munich, Germany, starting in 2026. The pilot program will initially operate with safety drivers onboard, with the goal of eventually offering fully driverless robotaxi rides.
Key Points
- Partnership: Uber teams up with Momenta to expand its autonomous ride-hailing services into Europe.
- Technology: Vehicles will operate at Level 4 autonomy, capable of fully driverless operation under specific conditions.
- Timeline: Testing will commence in 2026, not before.
- Location: Munich, a major automotive and technology hub in Germany.
- Background: The partnership was announced in May 2025, targeting international expansion beyond the US and China.
Why It Matters
- Uber is taking a major step into the European robotaxi market, where adoption has been slower compared to the US and China.
- The move puts Uber in competition with other autonomous efforts in Germany, including Volkswagen and international rivals like Baidu and Lyft.
- Success in Munich could open the door for broader deployments across Europe, depending on regulatory approval and public acceptance.