ride-hailing

Dubai has granted Baidu’s Apollo Go the emirate’s first permit for fully driverless vehicle testing, paving the way for a commercial launch as early as Q1 2026. This landmark approval allows Apollo Go to operate autonomous vehicles on public roads without a safety driver. The company also launched its first overseas operations and management hub, Apollo Go Park, in Dubai, signaling a significant expansion into international markets. This collaboration underscores Dubai’s commitment to advancing autonomous mobility and smart city initiatives.

A widespread power outage in San Francisco forced Waymo to temporarily halt its fully autonomous ride-hailing services. The disruption, caused by a substation fire, left many streets impassable and Waymo vehicles stalled. While power is largely restored, the incident highlights the challenges of AV deployment in such scenarios. Tesla CEO Elon Musk claimed Tesla’s robotaxis were unaffected, though Tesla currently requires human supervision for its ride-hailing services in the area.

Uber launches Uber Ski, targeting the winter tourism market by offering transportation to nearly 40 ski resorts in the US, Canada, Switzerland, and France, available through March. Partnering with Vail Resorts, users can book rides directly to resorts and purchase Epic Passes via the app. Uber also enhances the user experience with UberXL/XXL options for gear and expands Uber Share to major airports, potentially cutting costs. They have released the “Send a Ride” option, similar to the Uber Eats gifting function.

Marti Technologies, Inc., Türkiye’s leading mobility super-app, will be included in the S&P Global Broad Market Index (BMI) effective September 22, 2025. This inclusion signifies growing investor confidence and expands Marti’s reach to index-tracking funds and active investors seeking exposure to the Turkish economy. Marti’s CEO views this as validation of their business model. Analysts are cautiously optimistic, citing Marti’s market position and technological capabilities, despite economic risks. The company will focus on expanding services and deepening market penetration.

The DOJ is suing Uber, alleging ADA violations due to systemic discrimination against riders with disabilities. The lawsuit claims Uber drivers routinely deny service to individuals with service animals or requiring wheelchairs, and impose unwarranted fees. The DOJ alleges discriminatory driver behavior includes refusals, inappropriate questioning and impermissible surcharges. Uber denies the allegations, citing its zero-tolerance policy and accessibility features. The DOJ argues Uber’s efforts are insufficient under the ADA. The lawsuit could have significant financial and operational consequences for Uber and impact the ride-hailing industry’s responsibility in ensuring equal access for users with disabilities.

Waymo is expanding its robotaxi service, partnering with Uber in Atlanta and Austin, while starting test drives in Denver and Seattle with safety drivers. These new locations complement Waymo’s existing commercial operations in major US cities. In some cities, Waymo can be hailed via Uber; elsewhere, the Waymo One app is required. The test fleet includes electric vehicles like the Jaguar I-Pace and Geely Zeekr AV. Waymo faces competition from Apollo Go and Tesla in the autonomous vehicle market.

Alibaba’s Amap is expanding its global footprint by launching ride-hailing services in Canada, New Zealand, Switzerland, and the UAE, bringing its availability to 30 countries. Chinese users can access the service abroad without needing new SIM cards, using familiar payment platforms and the Chinese interface. Amap offers integrated travel services, including real-time translation and navigation, addressing pain points for international travelers by providing a streamlined, one-app experience.

Didi Chuxing is introducing a revamped driver support program to stabilize driver earnings. Key initiatives include lowering the maximum commission cap per ride to 27%, implementing “Commission Rebate Pro” for active drivers guaranteeing a 25% monthly cap, and reducing high-commission rides through subsidies and dispatch optimization. These changes aim to foster a more fair and sustainable ecosystem and improve income transparency via the Didi driver app. The program is being piloted in select cities before a nationwide rollout.

Baidu’s Apollo Go and Lyft are partnering to launch driverless taxi services in Europe, starting in Germany and the UK by 2026. The plan involves deploying thousands of Apollo Go’s autonomous vehicles, leveraging Lyft’s operational expertise. This collaboration follows a similar alliance with Uber and aims to expand Apollo Go’s global reach, building on its existing fleet of over 1,000 autonomous vehicles operating in 15 cities. The goal is to provide safer, greener, and more efficient transportation options to European riders.

Didi Chuxing has launched “Four-Wheel Errand,” a luggage transfer service utilizing its private car fleet. Aimed at easing travel burdens, the service facilitates seamless luggage transportation, targeting vacationing families and business travelers. Didi is partnering with InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), piloting the service at over 300 Holiday Inn Express hotels in Shanghai, Beijing, and other cities, with plans to expand to other IHG brands and transportation hubs. This move expands Didi’s service offerings and caters to the tourism sector’s needs, offering a “travel light” experience.