Autonomous technology startup Avride is set to ramp up testing of its self-driving vehicles in Dallas as it prepares for a commercial rollout of Uber robotaxis later this year. The company’s upcoming deployment will mark a significant milestone in autonomous mobility, blending cutting-edge artificial intelligence with advanced electric vehicle platforms.

The tests will be conducted using Hyundai’s IONIQ 5, a fully electric SUV that has been integrated with Avride’s proprietary autonomous driving technology. The IONIQ 5’s scalable design and long-range performance make it a suitable base for large-scale robotaxi deployment, while Avride’s AI-powered systems are designed to handle complex urban driving conditions such as dense traffic, unpredictable pedestrian movement, and challenging weather.

By partnering with Uber, Avride gains direct access to a massive user base and an established ride-hailing infrastructure. This move is expected to significantly accelerate the adoption of autonomous mobility, with Uber aiming to expand its robotaxi fleet as consumer trust in self-driving technology grows. The collaboration also signals a broader industry trend of integrating autonomous vehicle startups with established transportation platforms to bring innovative mobility solutions into mainstream use.

The rollout in Dallas will serve as a proving ground, with Avride expected to gather critical performance data during testing phases. These insights will help refine the company’s AI algorithms, safety protocols, and decision-making models. Successful large-scale tests could open the door for expansion to other U.S. cities, with Uber potentially scaling the initiative globally in the coming years.

As competition intensifies in the autonomous mobility space, Avride’s progress with Uber could establish it as one of the frontrunners in the sector. With regulators, automakers, and mobility companies increasingly focused on the future of urban transportation, the robotaxi launch represents a pivotal step toward redefining how people move in smart, connected cities.