Nuro secures California permit to test driverless Lucid Gravity robotaxis for Uber
The updated DMV permit allows testing without human operators in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties as the companies move toward later-2026 launch plans.
En resumen
- Nuro has received an updated California DMV permit to test Lucid Gravity robotaxis without human operators for Uber.
- The companies say driverless testing could begin later this year, but commercial rides still need more approvals.
Resumen generado por IA
Por qué importa
Nuro and Uber are working with Lucid on a robotaxi service based on the Lucid Gravity electric crossover. The current permit only allows testing, while paid driverless rides still need additional approvals.
Uber-backed Nuro has received an updated California DMV permit to test its Lucid Gravity robotaxis without human operators on public roads.
The permit covers testing in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties at speeds of up to 45 mph, day or night. It is a key step in Uber's plan to deploy 100,000 driverless vehicles in the U.S., including up to 35,000 powered by Nuro's self-driving technology.
So far, Uber and Nuro have only operated the Lucid Gravity EVs in autonomous mode with a human safety driver, and those rides have been limited to Uber employees. The companies expect to begin fully autonomous testing later this year, according to a Nuro spokesperson.
Nuro has also been testing its Lucid robotaxis in Tokyo with human drivers as a backup. The vehicles are equipped with high-resolution cameras, lidar sensors and radar, and the interior includes rider-controlled heated seats.
The updated permit does not authorize paid rides to the public. Before commercial service can begin, Nuro still needs a deployment permit from the California DMV and a driverless ride-hailing permit from the California Public Utilities Commission.
Qué observar
Perspectiva de IA — posibilidades, no hechos
Nuro and Uber are likely to continue driverless testing in California later this year.
Muy probable · En semanas
The companies will likely seek additional DMV and CPUC approvals before offering paid rides.
Muy probable · En semanas
A Bay Area commercial rollout remains possible in late 2026 if regulators approve the remaining permits.
Probable · En meses
Preguntas abiertas
- When exactly will driverless testing begin?
- When will Nuro file for the remaining DMV and CPUC approvals?
- Will the initial commercial launch be fully driverless or still limited?
