- Uber initially viewed autonomous vehicles as a threat, but has shifted to a strategy of becoming a platform connecting riders to both human-driven and driverless rides.
- Uber is lobbying for laws to mandate 'hybrid networks' where human drivers and autonomous vehicles operate together, including proposals in New Jersey requiring 85% human-driven rides.
- These lobbying efforts could limit competition by preventing self-driving companies like Waymo and Tesla from operating their own ride-hail apps, forcing them onto platforms like Uber.
- In Washington, D.C., Uber is advocating for inclusion in autonomous vehicle programs to ensure hybrid networks are part of the transition, citing worker and competitive concerns.
- Uber released a policy paper advocating a 'phased transition' to autonomous vehicles to protect riders, drivers, and cities, marking a shift from its earlier regulatory resistance.
- The company's past includes regulatory battles and a failed self-driving program, with its new stance acknowledged as ironic given its history of exploiting regulatory gray areas.