Uber to Open Facility in Detroit Area

Uber Technologies Inc. is close to opening a facility in the Detroit area to boost collaboration with conventional car companies, a top executive said at a conference Monday.

Sherif Marakby, recently hired by the ride-sharing giant to run global vehicle programs, said the company doesn't have interest in making cars or creating hardware. Instead, Uber wants to work with the existing supply chain to develop its future plans with light-vehicle transportation.

Mr. Marakby worked for Ford Motor Co. in senior engineering roles before jumping to Uber earlier in 2016. Uber tied up a joint development deal with Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd.'s Volvo Car Corp. over the summer under which the two companies will collaborate on autonomous technology. Volvo will provide vehicles.

Mr. Marakby said the company is close to finalizing its Detroit plans.

Uber recently started testing autonomous Ford Fusions in Pittsburgh, and has welcomed the public to participate. Ford, Tesla Motors Inc., General Motors Co. and several other auto makers aim to make strides in offering autonomous cars or self-driven shuttle services in coming years.

Write to John D. Stoll at [e-mail]

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

September 19, 2016 12:05 ET (16:05 GMT)

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