TechCrunch · 23 Oct, 04:00 · Artificial Intelligence briefing

Uber rival inDrive eyes 2027 robotaxi tests in Central Asia with Pony.ai and Nvidia

inDrive, a prominent ride-hailing competitor to Uber, has announced plans to initiate robotaxi trials in Central Asia by 2027.

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The briefing

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inDrive, a prominent ride-hailing competitor to Uber, has announced plans to initiate robotaxi trials in Central Asia by 2027. The company is collaborating with Pony.ai, a leader in autonomous driving technology, and Nvidia, a major provider of computing hardware for artificial intelligence. This strategic partnership aims to navigate the complex regulatory and infrastructure landscapes of the region. The initiative signals a significant step towards the commercialisation of autonomous vehicles in emerging markets, moving beyond theoretical development to practical, on-road testing within a defined geopolitical context.

Employer demand for AI Strategy skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

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This development signals that autonomous vehicle technology is expanding beyond Western markets, creating urgent demand for specialists who understand both AI integration and regional operational constraints. You should focus on skills in AI strategy and cross-border project management, as professionals who can bridge technical capabilities with local regulatory requirements will become invaluable. If you work in transport or tech, monitor Central Asian market trends closely. A smart next step is to upskill in autonomous systems governance and international partnership management. By positioning yourself at the intersection of technology deployment and regional compliance, you future-proof your career against automation shifts while capitalising on early-mover advantages in emerging economies.

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