Pony.ai, Uber, and Verne Launch Europe's First Commercial Robotaxi Service in Zagreb

Europe's autonomous vehicle industry is entering a new era as Pony.ai (NASDAQ: PONY), Uber Technologies (NYSE: UBER), and fleet operator Verne have announced a landmark three-way partnership to launch the continent's first commercial robotaxi service. Initial operations are planned to kick off in Zagreb, Croatia, marking a pivotal shift from autonomous vehicle testing to real-world, fare-charging deployment.

The collaboration brings together three distinct strengths: Pony.ai contributes its cutting-edge Gen-7 autonomous driving technology, Uber integrates the service into its widely used ride-hailing app, and Verne takes the lead as fleet owner and operator. This structure allows each company to focus on its core competency while collectively advancing the commercialization of self-driving transportation in Europe.

On-road testing using Pony.ai's autonomous systems is already underway in Zagreb, with preparations for paid rides progressing steadily. The companies have outlined ambitious long-term plans to scale the robotaxi fleet to thousands of vehicles across multiple European cities, signaling strong confidence in both the technology and the regulatory pathway ahead.

Regulatory approval remains one of the most significant challenges facing autonomous mobility in Europe. To address this, Verne will spearhead efforts to obtain the necessary clearances and manage deployment logistics at a local level. Uber has also committed to investing in Verne, reinforcing its financial backing of the initiative and supporting its broader European expansion strategy.

This partnership represents a major milestone not only for the three companies involved but for the global autonomous vehicle industry. As robotaxi services gain traction in markets like the United States and China, Zagreb's launch positions Europe as a serious contender in the race toward driverless urban mobility. Expansion into additional European cities is expected to follow as operations mature and regulatory frameworks evolve.