Volkswagen of America first rolled out an autonomous vehicle test fleet using ID. Buzz electric minivans in July 2023 in Austin, Texas. Now, the retro-styled people mover has found a new role as Uber’s autonomous driving vehicle. However, you’ll have to wait until late next year to book the ID. Buzz AD on the ride-hailing platform. The service will debut in Los Angeles, with additional regions to follow.
In the meantime, testing of the Uber-spec ID. Buzz AD begins later this year. During both the testing phase and the initial stages of the commercial launch, a human operator will remain behind the wheel. VW emphasizes that operators are essential for identifying last-minute adjustments and intervening whenever necessary to ensure passenger safety.
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The company is taking a cautious, phased approach: “Each step will proceed only after any necessary regulatory approvals have been received.” VW is relying on its autonomous mobility sub-brand, MOIA, to adapt the ID. Buzz for Uber service. In the long term, VW of America and Uber plan to deploy thousands of these autonomous vans across various U.S. regions over the next decade.
VW has been testing the self-driving ID. Buzz for three years, starting in Munich before expanding the program to Hamburg. The ID. Buzz AD itself dates back to 2021, and a major update last year brought a partnership with Mobileye for SAE Level 4 automation. The robotaxi now features 13 cameras, nine LIDAR sensors, and five radars, along with redundant systems for braking, steering, and power supply.
For now, the ID. Buzz remains a relatively rare sight on U.S. roads. VW sold just 1,162 units last year when the electric minivan finally launched in North America, a couple of years after its European debut. In the first quarter of 2025, VW shipped 1,901 units in the U.S.
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