The autonomous vehicle industry is splitting into two paths: robotaxi services and automated trucking.
Alphabet’s Waymo operates in 14 U.S. cities. It provides more than 500,000 paid rides per week, making it the leading player in ride-hailing.
Uber is reportedly investing $10 billion to build its own robotaxi fleet with vehicle makers. The move shifts Uber from Waymo partner to direct rival.
Aurora Innovation is focusing on freight. It plans to have 200 driverless trucks operating by the end of 2026 as it expands its transport-as-a-service business.
The divide follows a period of consolidation. Some companies, including Waymo, previously shut down their freight divisions to focus on ride-hailing, reinforcing the industry’s split into specialized areas.