Volkswagen’s autonomous vehicle subsidiary MOIA America and Uber have begun testing self-driving microbuses in Los Angeles, the first step toward a planned commercial robotaxi launch in the city by late 2026.
Testing is getting underway with approximately 10 autonomous ID. Buzz vehicles in Los Angeles. The production version of the driverless vehicle seats four passengers.
A year ago, MOIA America and Uber unveiled plans to launch a commercial robotaxi service using autonomous versions of Volkswagen’s electric ID. Buzz minivan across multiple U.S. cities over the next decade, with Los Angeles as the first market. The MOIA America name is relatively new, rebranding what was previously known as Volkswagen ADMT in early 2026. The MOIA brand has operated a ride-pooling service in Europe and conducted autonomous testing in Hamburg, Berlin, Munich, and Oslo.
MOIA America still faces a lengthy regulatory process before it can operate a commercial robotaxi service in California, requiring permits from the California DMV for both testing and deployment.
Uber now counts 25 autonomous vehicle partnerships spanning ride-hailing, delivery, drones, and trucking. Its most prominent U.S. partnership remains Waymo, while internationally it has locked in agreements with Chinese companies for robotaxi services in Europe and the Middle East, as well as U.K.-based Wayve.
