The battle over robotaxi rules: Uber and Waymo take opposing sides
A proposed bill in Washington, D.C. to regulate autonomous vehicles has sparked a fierce debate, with Uber and Waymo on opposite ends. Uber argues the bill would create a monopoly for Waymo and suggests a hybrid model, while critics say it gives Waymo an unfair advantage.
The battle over robotaxi rules
Uber and Waymo have taken opposing stances on a proposed bill in the Washington, D.C. Council that would govern autonomous vehicles. Uber, which opposes the bill, argues it would displace human drivers and hand Waymo a de facto monopoly. Instead, Uber has lobbied for a hybrid system that would require robotaxis to operate on a ride-hailing network alongside human drivers. However, insiders say this approach has little chance of becoming law.
A Monday hearing drew representatives from Lyft, Tesla, Uber, and Waymo, along with disability rights advocates, local businesses, highway safety groups, labor unions, and think tanks. Waymo is one of the few companies that generally supports the bill. Tesla objected to the mandatory 180-day, 250,000-mile testing requirement and fees of $1 million for application, $5 million for permit, and $0.15 per mile tax. Waymo has already exceeded these thresholds, giving it at least a six-month head start.
Uber's Delivery Hero acquisition
Uber is acquiring Germany's Delivery Hero for $14.8 billion, doubling its delivery footprint. The deal gives Uber access to nearly 100 markets across Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia. Separately, Delivery Hero sold its business in 14 markets to SSW Partners for $1.6 billion.
Other notable deals: Self Inspection raised $10 million, Senra raised $65 million in Series B, and Zepto is seeking a lower IPO valuation.
Other mobility news
Chip Motors unveiled a low-speed small EV with some automated driving. The LAPD is ending its deal with Flock Safety. Lucid Motors strongly denied bankruptcy rumors after a stock drop of over 50%. The NTSB found a Tesla driver had pressed the accelerator to 100% before crashing into a house. San Francisco's mayor urged tougher AV rules after Waymo robotaxis got stuck in traffic. SpaceX aborted a second Starship launch. Zoox issued a software recall after a fire scene incident.
