Uber’s Autonomous Driving Program In California Shut Down

Uber's autonomous driving program in California hangs in limbo following a ruling by the state's DMV.

Autonomous driving technology is all the rave these days. Thus, you can expect ride-hailing businesses such as Uber to jump on the bandwagon and invest their time and energy into being a leader in utilizing the technology in their fleet of vehicles. However, all is not sunny in California right now for Uber, as recently the company had to make a split decision to move their autonomous driving operations to Arizona. This is because one of Uber’s Volvo XC90 SUV’s that utilizes their technology was caught on camera running a red light, something that is of course illegal.

These vehicles were launched initially in San Francisco, but California’s DMV began to complain that Uber’s vehicles were not properly registered as “self-driving cars.” Uber fired back, stating that they don’t need any permits since their autonomous vehicles require a human operator remain at the wheel, meaning they don’t fit California’s definition of “autonomous.” Regardless, the DMV announced this past Wednesday that they are revoking existing registration on Uber’s cars. So, until further notice, the company is unable to operate their autonomous vehicle services in California.

The technology in these cars functions more similarly to driver assistance technology according to 

Uber, and the ride-hailing company is looking to get the last laugh. Currently, executives are looking at places where they can relaunch their autonomous cars (including California) and plan to work on new statewide rules as well. Arizona’s governor expressed excitement in the idea of having Uber’s autonomous cars operate within the state, good news for the company.

Volvo has vowed to take steps to become one of the safest automakers in the world, which includes becoming an innovator in autonomous vehicles.

Uber is far from the first automotive-related company to experiment with driverless cars. As both Ford and Volvo are actively taking steps to become leaders in this arena. Are you excited for the future of autonomous driving? How do you think it will impact everyday commuting? Keep an eye out for more upcoming technology, and also if your next Uber rolls up practically on its own.

Until next time, ROLL ON! And happy holidays!

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