Uber Reduces Driver Recruitment in Cities With Robotaxis

Uber is recruiting fewer ride-hailing drivers in some cities where self-driving cars operate, the company's CEO said. The reduction is intended to limit new entrants so that current drivers can maintain earnings, the CEO told Fast Company. The same statement noted that human drivers in those markets are busier than drivers in cities without the vehicles.

Driver sign-ups and demand The company reported that more drivers have joined the platform even as marketing spending is reduced in certain cities. Officials attributed the increase to added rider demand created by the presence of autonomous vehicles. A spokesperson said both statements can be true at once: fewer targeted recruitment efforts alongside higher voluntary sign-ups.

Outlook for human drivers The company has stated it will continue to need human drivers alongside autonomous vehicles. Last year the chief operating officer said the total number of drivers could rise as more people choose ride-hailing instead of car ownership.