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Uber faces Central Asia pressure as inDrive eyes robotaxi shift

Ride-hailing firm inDrive partners with Pony.ai and Nvidia to launch autonomous vehicle tests in Kazakhstan by 2027.

October 23, 2026•1 min read•Based on reporting by TechCrunch

Abstract vector illustration of a geometric transit network

Ride-hailing service inDrive is preparing to integrate autonomous vehicle technology into its operations. The company intends to begin testing robotaxis in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, during the first half of 2027.

This transition involves a strategic collaboration with Pony.ai and Nvidia. The partnership leverages the technical capabilities of these firms to bring driverless transportation to the Central Asian market.

What it means

The move signals a shift toward automation for the Uber competitor in a region where it seeks to strengthen its presence. By integrating AI-driven vehicles, inDrive is moving toward a model that reduces reliance on human drivers for urban transit.

Sources

https://techcrunch.com/2026/10/22/uber-rival-indrive-eyes-2027-robotaxi-tests-in-central-asia-with-pony-ai-and-nvidia/

This article was written and illustrated with AI assistance from the reporting credited above, and reviewed against our editorial & AI policy. Facts come only from the linked sources. Spotted an error? Tell us.

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