Key facts
- Waymo is reportedly considering ending its partnership with Uber due to operational and commercial disagreements.
- Waymo plans to operate its robotaxis on its own app in Austin and Atlanta starting January 2028.
- Uber's contract with Waymo for Austin and Atlanta is set to end in May 2028.
- The companies recently ended their self-driving partnership in Phoenix.
- Uber's shares closed down 4.3% following the report.
Alphabet's autonomous vehicle unit, Waymo, is reportedly contemplating the termination of its partnership with Uber, citing a deteriorating relationship between the two companies. The Financial Times reported on Friday, citing sources familiar with the matter, that Waymo has engaged in internal discussions about ending the collaboration.
Disagreements between Waymo and Uber have reportedly intensified over operational and commercial aspects. Waymo has expressed concerns regarding the cleanliness and routing of its vehicles on Uber's platform. Conversely, Uber has criticized the sudden unavailability of Waymo vehicles during adverse weather conditions and has described the partnership's financial terms as unsustainable. A source familiar with the developments indicated that the companies are pursuing divergent objectives.
Waymo has informed Uber of its intention to enter these markets independently once their contract permits in January 2028. The two companies recently concluded their self-driving partnership in Phoenix, Arizona, in late June. Waymo vehicles are currently available on Uber's ride-hailing platform in Austin and Atlanta. Uber's shares closed down 4.3% following the report.