Uber Aims for an Edge in Race for Self-Driving Future
Like Uber, Google is intent on developing self-driving cars for urban taxi use — reasoning that the slow speeds and relatively predictable environment of city streets that can be thoroughly, digitally mapped is the best and safest near-term purpose of autonomous vehicles. But for Uber, such cars are not a side bet but a way to be more fully in control of its business by eliminating the need for drivers who expect to be paid.
“Uber arguably has more at stake in creating self-driving cars than any other automotive entity,” Mr. Brauer said.