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Companies Verne, Pony.ai i Uber announced a strategic partnership with the aim of launching the first commercial robotaxi services in Europe - and right here in Zagreb.
The three companies plan to jointly develop and deploy a commercial robotaxi service, combining Pony.ai's autonomous driving technology, Uber's global mobility platform, and Verne's operating and service ecosystem.
In this model: Pony.ai provides the autonomous driving technology, Verne takes on the role of fleet owner and service operator, while Uber integrates the service into its global transportation network.
Zagreb as a starting point for robotaxi in Europe
The partnership aims to build a scalable robotaxi service model in Zagreb, with plans to expand to other European cities and markets. The fleet is expected to grow to thousands of autonomous vehicles in the coming years. The implementation is expected to begin soon, while preparatory activities are already underway, including testing on public roads.
As part of the project, tests have already begun on the roads of Zagreb using the Pony.ai Gen-7 autonomous driving system, implemented on the Arcfox Alpha T5 Robotaxi vehicle.
In parallel with the tests, preparations are underway for the commercial introduction of the ride-hailing service, which positions Zagreb as the first market in Europe with an operational robotaxi service.
Regulatory framework and operating model
Verne will lead the process of harmonization with European regulatory requirements and coordinate the implementation of the robotaxi fleet within its own platform, but also through Uber's network.
This model enables a standardized level of service, safety, and user experience, but also lays the foundation for future expansion into other markets. As part of the partnership, Uber plans to invest in Verne and establish a long-term strategic partnership.
Global Context: From Testing to Real Service
"Partnership with Uber and Verne marks an important milestone in the global expansion of autonomous mobilityHe said James Peng, founder and CEO of Pony.ai, adding that in China their Gen-7 system has already reached commercial level: " The system already has profitability at the individual unit level in cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen, confirming the readiness of our technology and business model."
On the other hand, Marko Pejkovic from Vern points out that Europe needs to move from the testing phase to real service:
"Autonomous mobility in Europe must move from pilot projects to real operational models. At Verne, we are connecting technology, platform and operational capabilities to make this possible - starting in Zagreb."
Dara Khosrowshahi from Uber emphasizes the importance of partnerships and ecosystems: "Autonomous mobility can only scale globally through strong partnerships. By combining Pony.ai’s technology, Verne’s operational expertise, and Uber’s platform, we are taking an important step towards making autonomous transportation accessible to more users.”
