Uber CEO Warns of Job Losses from Robotaxis in 10-15 Years

URGENT UPDATE: Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi has issued a stark warning: self-driving cars could displace human drivers within the next 10 to 15 years. Speaking at the recent All-In podcast summit, Khosrowshahi raised alarms about the societal implications of this shift, stating, “This is going to be a real issue.”

As the integration of autonomous vehicles accelerates, Khosrowshahi highlighted the potential job losses for gig workers who have been vital to Uber’s growth. Currently, Uber is testing driverless rides with Waymo vehicles in Atlanta and Austin, showing promising results that suggest robotaxis could outperform human drivers in efficiency.

Khosrowshahi reassured the audience that for the next five to seven years, human drivers will still be at the forefront of Uber’s operations, but the long-term outlook is troubling. “We’re going to have more human drivers and delivery people, just because we’re going so quickly,” he explained. However, he warned that the rise of AI poses a “big, big societal question” that will need addressing.

The growing prevalence of AI in the workforce raises significant concerns for gig workers, with many fearing for their job security. Early findings from Uber’s partnership with Waymo indicate that self-driving vehicles are more effective than most human drivers. Yet, some current Uber drivers remain skeptical about the technology’s reliability, particularly regarding its ability to navigate common obstacles like potholes.

Despite the looming threat of job displacement, Khosrowshahi pointed out that AI is also generating new opportunities for independent contractors. Uber is diversifying its offerings, providing roles that focus on data labeling and processing to train AI models. “We’re expanding into other kinds of on-demand work,” he stated, aiming to align with the evolving job market.

As the conversation around AI and employment continues, Khosrowshahi stressed the need for a collective struggle to find solutions. With the rapid advancement of technology, the implications for gig economy workers are becoming increasingly urgent.

As this story develops, many are left wondering: What will the future hold for the millions of drivers reliant on ride-hailing platforms? The answers are imperative, not just for Uber but for the entire gig economy landscape. Stay tuned for further updates on this critical issue.