TechCrunchยท2025-08-04 14:55Core Insights - Lyft has announced a strategic partnership with Baidu to deploy Baidu's Apollo Go autonomous vehicles in Europe, specifically targeting Germany and the United Kingdom for robotaxi services by 2026, pending regulatory approval [1][2] Company Strategy - Lyft's CEO David Risher emphasized that the robotaxi service represents a "hybrid network approach," integrating autonomous vehicles (AVs) with human drivers to enhance customer options [2] - Lyft has historically focused on the U.S. market, contrasting with Uber's global expansion strategy, which includes food delivery services [2][3] Market Expansion - The acquisition of the German multi-mobility app FREENOW for approximately $197 million has enabled Lyft to enter the European market, where it previously only operated in the U.S. and Canada since its inception in 2012 [2][3] Competitive Landscape - Both Lyft and Uber have discontinued their internal autonomous vehicle programs and are now competing to form partnerships with technology companies like Baidu that have developed self-driving technology [3] - Uber has established partnerships with over 18 companies in various sectors, including ride-hailing and delivery, and has made significant investments in autonomous vehicle technology [4] Recent Developments - Lyft has made some progress in forming partnerships, including plans to integrate autonomous shuttles from Benteler Group into its network by late 2026 and deploying AVs from May Mobility in Atlanta later this year [5]