Self-driving technology is changing the ride-hailing and delivery industry faster than ever before. Uber, Lyft, and major delivery companies are pouring billions into autonomous vehicles (AVs) to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and stay ahead of competitors. But how exactly are these companies using AVs, and what does it mean for fleet operators?
1. Uber has invested over $2.5 billion in autonomous vehicle (AV) research since 2015
Uber was one of the earliest adopters of self-driving technology. Since 2015, the company has poured more than $2.5 billion into developing AVs, testing them in real-world scenarios, and refining the technology. However, the journey has not been smooth.
For fleet operators, the key takeaway is that AV technology requires enormous investment, both in hardware and software. If you are considering adopting self-driving tech, partnerships with established AV firms might be the best route.
The industry is still evolving, and collaborating with experienced players could save costs while benefiting from cutting-edge advancements.
2. Lyft sold its self-driving division, Level 5, to Toyota’s Woven Planet for $550 million in 2021
Unlike Uber, Lyft took a different path. Instead of continuing to develop its own AV technology, it sold its self-driving unit, Level 5, to Toyota’s Woven Planet. This move signaled a shift in strategy—Lyft is now focusing on integrating third-party AV technology rather than developing it in-house.
Fleet operators can learn from this by recognizing that AV development is expensive and risky. If you’re in the ride-hailing or delivery business, you don’t necessarily need to build your own AVs. Instead, partnering with an established AV provider might be a more cost-effective and practical approach.
3. Uber’s AV division was acquired by Aurora Innovation in 2020 for $4 billion
In 2020, Uber sold its self-driving unit to Aurora Innovation for $4 billion. The deal allowed Uber to maintain a stake in the AV industry while offloading the costs and risks of direct development. Aurora now leads Uber’s AV research and testing, focusing on autonomous trucks and ride-hailing.
For fleet owners, this move highlights a crucial lesson: investing in AVs does not always mean building them from scratch. Strategic partnerships with AV firms like Aurora, Waymo, or Cruise could allow companies to access self-driving tech without shouldering the full financial burden.
4. Waymo, Alphabet’s AV subsidiary, has completed over 50 million real-world autonomous miles
Waymo, Google’s self-driving car unit, is considered the industry leader. It has logged over 50 million autonomous miles, refining its technology to handle real-world driving scenarios better than any other company.
Fleet operators interested in AV adoption should pay attention to Waymo’s strategy. Real-world testing is crucial for improving safety and efficiency. If you’re considering AV technology, ensure that the provider you partner with has significant real-world testing experience.
The more miles an AV system has driven, the more reliable and safer it is.
5. Cruise, GM’s AV unit, secured a $5 billion credit line from GM Financial to scale AV deployment
Cruise, GM’s AV subsidiary, secured a $5 billion credit line to expand its self-driving fleet. This financial backing highlights the massive capital required to scale AV operations.
For fleet owners, this means AV deployment will take time. If you plan to integrate AVs into your fleet, start small. Pilot programs with limited vehicles can help test the technology, evaluate cost savings, and fine-tune operations before expanding.
6. Aurora, backed by Uber, Amazon, and Toyota, is testing AV trucking routes across Texas and California
Aurora is focusing on autonomous trucking, a sector with huge potential for cost savings and efficiency improvements. By testing AV trucking routes in Texas and California, Aurora aims to revolutionize long-haul freight transportation.
Fleet operators should take note of AV trucking’s potential. Self-driving trucks could reduce fuel consumption, lower labor costs, and improve delivery times. If your business relies on trucking, exploring AV options now could put you ahead of the competition.
7. Uber Eats is actively testing autonomous delivery robots in Los Angeles and Miami
The food delivery industry is embracing AV technology. Uber Eats is piloting autonomous delivery robots in major cities, aiming to cut labor costs and improve efficiency.
For delivery fleet owners, this is a clear signal that automation is coming. Investing in autonomous delivery solutions or partnering with AV providers could give your business a competitive edge.
8. Lyft has partnered with Motional to launch a fully driverless ride-hailing service in Las Vegas in 2024
Lyft is rolling out a fully autonomous ride-hailing service in Las Vegas, in partnership with Motional. This marks a major shift towards AV adoption in mainstream ride-hailing.
Fleet operators should pay close attention to how customers respond to AV taxis. If the service proves successful, other cities will likely follow, making it essential to prepare for an AV-driven future.
9. Waymo One, the company’s ride-hailing service, operates in Phoenix and San Francisco without safety drivers
Waymo is leading the way with fully autonomous ride-hailing in Phoenix and San Francisco. Unlike other AVs that still require human supervision, Waymo’s vehicles operate without safety drivers.
This is a major milestone. If you’re in the ride-hailing business, now is the time to start planning for AV integration. Identifying the best routes, understanding local regulations, and evaluating cost implications will help your business transition smoothly when AVs become widespread.
10. Over 90% of Lyft and Uber trips are still human-driven, with AVs accounting for a tiny fraction
Despite all the advancements, self-driving rides still make up less than 10% of Uber and Lyft’s trips. AVs are not replacing human drivers overnight, but their presence is growing.
This means fleet operators have time to adapt. The key is to stay informed, start small pilot programs, and prepare for gradual AV adoption rather than an abrupt shift.
11. AV adoption in ride-hailing is projected to grow at a 35% CAGR from 2024 to 2030
Autonomous ride-hailing is growing rapidly, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 35% over the next six years. This means that while human-driven rides still dominate today, AVs will take a significant share of the market in the near future.
For fleet operators, this statistic serves as a wake-up call. Companies that fail to prepare for AVs risk falling behind. Now is the time to explore partnerships with AV providers, test self-driving technology, and understand how automation can impact your bottom line.
12. Uber’s partnership with Waymo enables select Uber and Uber Eats users to book Waymo rides in Phoenix
Uber has integrated Waymo’s driverless taxis into its app, allowing some users in Phoenix to book AV rides directly. This marks a significant shift, as Uber previously focused on developing its own AVs but is now embracing third-party providers.
Fleet operators should take note of this trend. Instead of developing proprietary AVs, the future may involve ride-hailing platforms working with specialized AV firms. Companies in the transportation industry should explore similar collaborations to stay competitive.
13. Cruise aims to expand to at least 10 major U.S. cities by 2026
Cruise, backed by General Motors, is aggressively expanding. The company aims to operate in 10 major U.S. cities by 2026, signaling a rapid push toward AV deployment.
If you operate a fleet in a major city, expect AVs to become a reality soon. Now is the time to evaluate how AVs will affect your business model. Will they reduce costs? Will they compete with your current services? Understanding these factors now will help you make smarter business decisions in the coming years.
14. Uber Freight is testing AV trucks on major shipping routes, particularly in the U.S. Southwest
Uber Freight is testing self-driving trucks in states like Texas and Arizona, where long-haul transportation is crucial. These AV trucks are designed to reduce delivery times, cut fuel costs, and minimize driver fatigue.
Fleet operators in logistics should monitor these developments closely. Autonomous trucking could significantly reduce labor costs, improve delivery efficiency, and increase profitability. Those who adopt the technology early will likely gain a competitive advantage.
15. More than 100,000 driverless deliveries have been completed via services like Uber Eats and DoorDash
Autonomous deliveries are not just an idea—they are already happening. Over 100,000 driverless deliveries have been successfully completed, proving that AV technology is viable for last-mile logistics.
For fleet managers in the delivery industry, this means one thing: automation is coming. Investing in AV partnerships or exploring robotic delivery solutions could help future-proof your business. Those who adapt early will benefit from cost savings and operational efficiency.
16. DoorDash has partnered with Starship Technologies and Nuro for autonomous delivery expansion
DoorDash is actively integrating autonomous delivery vehicles into its network, working with companies like Starship Technologies and Nuro. These partnerships show that major delivery firms see AVs as the future of logistics.
If you run a delivery service, now is the time to assess how AVs can fit into your operations. Can AVs handle small package deliveries? Would robot couriers work in your city? These are critical questions to explore before AV adoption becomes widespread.
17. AVs could reduce ride-hailing costs by up to 50% when scaled, according to industry estimates
One of the biggest advantages of self-driving technology is cost reduction. Without human drivers, ride-hailing costs could drop by 50%, making rides more affordable and increasing demand.
For fleet owners, this poses a challenge and an opportunity. While AVs could reduce labor costs, they also require upfront investment. Businesses that transition early will have a better chance of maintaining profitability in an AV-dominated industry.
18. 40% of Americans say they are uncomfortable with the idea of riding in a self-driving taxi
Not everyone is excited about AVs. Surveys show that 40% of Americans still feel uncomfortable with driverless taxis, which means public trust remains a barrier to adoption.
Fleet operators should focus on customer education. Highlighting safety measures, real-world AV success stories, and the benefits of automation will help build confidence among passengers. The more comfortable customers feel, the faster AV adoption will grow.
19. Uber’s AV ambitions were initially slowed by a 2018 fatal crash in Arizona involving a test vehicle
In 2018, an Uber self-driving car was involved in a fatal accident in Arizona, raising concerns about AV safety. This incident led to stricter regulations and delayed Uber’s AV rollout.
For companies looking to integrate AVs, safety should be the top priority. Working with experienced AV providers, implementing strong safety protocols, and ensuring compliance with regulations will be crucial for success.
20. The global autonomous ride-hailing market is expected to reach $200 billion by 2030
AV ride-hailing is expected to grow into a $200 billion market by the end of the decade. This explosive growth presents a major opportunity for fleet operators willing to invest in automation.
Those who prepare now—by testing AV technology, exploring partnerships, and analyzing market trends—will be in a strong position to capitalize on this growing industry.
21. Lyft estimates that AVs could make up 50% of its fleet by 2035
Lyft believes that by 2035, half of its fleet will be autonomous. This suggests a gradual shift rather than an overnight transition.
For fleet owners, this means there is still time to adapt. However, companies that ignore AVs risk being left behind. Even small-scale AV integration today can help businesses stay competitive in the long run.
22. Waymo’s driverless vehicles use a sensor suite costing over $250,000 per unit
Waymo’s self-driving cars rely on expensive sensor technology, with each unit costing over $250,000. While costs are expected to decline, AV adoption remains an expensive endeavor.
Fleet operators should consider leasing AVs or using shared AV fleets instead of purchasing them outright. Cost-sharing models could make AV adoption more affordable.
23. Cruise’s AVs have logged more than 5 million driverless miles in San Francisco alone
Cruise’s AVs are racking up millions of driverless miles, proving their ability to operate in complex urban environments.
For businesses in cities, this means AV ride-hailing and delivery services will become a reality sooner than in rural areas. Urban fleet operators should prepare for AV competition by exploring automation strategies now.
24. The AV industry has seen over $100 billion in total investments from companies and venture capital firms
With more than $100 billion invested in AV technology, it’s clear that major companies see this as the future of transportation.
Fleet operators should take these investments seriously. The money being poured into AVs suggests that widespread adoption is inevitable. Staying ahead of this trend will be critical for long-term success.
25. 75% of major delivery and ride-hailing companies have at least one AV pilot program
Most leading companies in ride-hailing and delivery are testing AVs in some capacity. This means that competition is heating up, and businesses that ignore automation could be left behind.
Fleet owners should at least explore small-scale AV trials to understand how the technology fits into their operations. Waiting too long to adapt could mean losing market share.
26. AVs in delivery services could cut operational costs by up to 30% due to labor savings
One of the biggest expenses in delivery services is labor. Paying drivers, managing shifts, and dealing with human errors all add to operational costs. Autonomous vehicles (AVs) can eliminate many of these expenses, potentially reducing overall costs by up to 30%.
For delivery fleet operators, this is a game-changer. Lower costs mean better profit margins and competitive pricing. If your business relies heavily on deliveries, consider how AVs could fit into your model. Partnering with AV technology providers or investing in robotic delivery solutions could position your business for long-term growth.
However, it’s important to test AVs before fully integrating them. Start with small-scale pilot programs to understand how they perform in real-world conditions. Measure cost reductions and identify any operational challenges before making larger investments.
27. FedEx and UPS are investing heavily in autonomous last-mile delivery vehicles
Major logistics companies like FedEx and UPS are betting big on AVs. They are testing self-driving trucks and autonomous delivery robots to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and handle increasing e-commerce demand.
If you operate a delivery or logistics fleet, this is a clear sign that AVs will play a major role in the future. The biggest names in logistics are already moving in this direction, and smaller operators should take note.
One practical approach is to explore partnerships with AV companies that specialize in last-mile deliveries. By doing so, you can reduce costs, improve delivery speed, and keep up with industry trends. If major players are investing in this technology, it’s worth considering how your business can stay ahead.
28. Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) is being considered for fleet services but remains in beta testing
Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system is one of the most well-known AV technologies, but it’s still in beta testing. Some fleet operators are interested in using Tesla’s system for ride-hailing and delivery services, but regulatory and technical challenges remain.
If you’re considering Tesla’s FSD for your fleet, be aware that the technology is not fully autonomous yet. It still requires human supervision, and legal restrictions could limit its use in commercial operations.
That said, keeping an eye on Tesla’s progress is important. As their technology improves and gains regulatory approval, it could become a viable option for fleet automation. Fleet operators should stay informed about Tesla’s developments and be ready to integrate FSD when it becomes commercially viable.
29. Amazon’s Zoox aims to deploy AV ride-hailing services within the next few years
Amazon-owned Zoox is developing self-driving taxis with plans to enter the ride-hailing market soon. Unlike Uber and Lyft, which modify existing vehicles, Zoox is building AVs from the ground up, designed specifically for autonomous ride-hailing.
For fleet operators, this means new competition is coming. Traditional ride-hailing businesses could see disruption from fully autonomous fleets built for efficiency, safety, and comfort.
Now is the time to prepare for this shift. If you own a ride-hailing fleet, consider how AVs could impact your business. Will customers prefer driverless taxis? How will pricing change? Studying companies like Zoox can provide insights into where the market is heading and how to stay competitive.
30. Over 60% of ride-hailing app users say they would use an AV if it were cheaper than a human-driven ride
Despite some skepticism about self-driving technology, cost remains a key factor for consumers. Over 60% of ride-hailing users say they would choose an autonomous ride if it was cheaper than a human-driven one.
For fleet operators, this means that price will play a major role in AV adoption. If self-driving cars offer lower fares, customers are likely to embrace the change—even if they have initial concerns about safety or comfort.
To stay competitive, fleet owners should consider their pricing strategies. If AVs become more affordable to operate, businesses that transition early could attract more riders and gain market share. This is a strong reason to start testing AVs now, rather than waiting until they dominate the industry.
wrapping it up
The rise of autonomous vehicles is no longer a question of “if” but “when.” Companies like Uber, Lyft, Waymo, Cruise, Amazon, and Tesla are pouring billions into self-driving technology, and the industry is moving forward at full speed. While AVs still make up a small fraction of ride-hailing and delivery services today, that number is set to grow rapidly in the coming years.
For fleet operators, the key takeaway is this: automation is coming, and businesses need to adapt. AVs promise lower operational costs, improved efficiency, and greater accessibility. However, they also present challenges, including high upfront costs, regulatory hurdles, and public skepticism.
