Uber has launched a self-driving car in Pittsburgh, despite CEO Travis Kalanick's comment to Uber drivers that such technology was decades away. The UberX - available only to the ride-hail firm's most loyal customers - is armed with an array of sensors, as well as an engineer and safety driver - both of whom would step in only if required to do so. While the self-driving car could mean big profits for Uber, who would take 65 to 80 percent of any fees charged, the company would also be faced with the challenges of operating and maintaining a fleet of cars.
Uber has launched a self-driving car in Pittsburgh, despite CEO Travis Kalanick's comment to Uber drivers that such technology was decades away. The UberX - available only to the ride-hail firm's most loyal customers - is armed with an array of sensors, as well as an engineer and safety driver - both of whom would step in only if required to do so. While the self-driving car could mean big profits for Uber, who would take 100% of any fees charged, the company would also be faced with the challenges of operating and maintaining a fleet of cars.