In this case, considering the issues that the cars have had already, and the tremendous pressure uber is under not to have their business technologically stolen

In this case, considering the issues that the cars have had already, and the tremendous pressure uber is under not to have their business technologically stolen from under them, I think someone realized their cars weren't in a position to acquire or maintain DMV approval and was gambling on being able to stall long enough to get their driving technology to that point. The more I think about it, the more absolutely despicable that would be, if it were the case. But, even in the best case, it's incredibly stupid, and dangerous to uber; do they want to be the first company to have a self driving car fatality? Whatever their reasons, they must be very desperate.