A decade ago, Travis Kalanick of Uber viewed self-driving vehicles as an existential threat. Now, the company seeks to be the go-to platform for both human and robot drivers.

The strategy involves lobbying lawmakers in New Jersey and Washington DC to mandate 'hybrid networks.' This would force companies like Waymo to use Uber’s app, limiting competition and ensuring Uber remains dominant.

Uber’s approach is consistent with its vision of a future where humans and robots work side by side. The company argues that such networks will support both technologies while addressing worker issues. However, other players like Waymo see this as a move to lock out competitors.

The battle for control over self-driving technology is intensifying, with partnerships and lobbying efforts shaping the future of ride-hailing services. Whether or not this hybrid strategy succeeds remains to be seen, but it certainly signals Uber’s ambition in an evolving landscape.