The autonomous Uber is set to hit the roads of London next year, following the government’s announcement that a trial for fully self-driving vehicles will commence in spring 2026.
For the first time in Europe, companies will be allowed to operate publicly, with human safety drivers permitted to oversee “bus-like” service pilots from the driver’s seat or onboard.
Uber is teaming up with UK tech company Wayve to trial taxis that can be booked through the app in the capital, marking a significant step in the largest European market.
A broader rollout of self-driving taxis, or Robotaxis, is anticipated after the full implementation of automated vehicle laws in late 2027.
The UK is accelerating its efforts, as unmanned taxis have already been established in numerous cities across San Francisco, USA, and China. Earlier this year, Uber launched its first unmanned taxi in Austin, Texas, in collaboration with Waymo. Meanwhile, Tesla also plans to introduce autonomous services for its competitors this month.
The Department of Transport (DfT) has stated that if the technology enhances road safety, it could generate 38,000 jobs and create a £42 billion industry by 2035.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander remarked: “The future of transportation is on the horizon. Self-driving cars can create jobs, attract investments, and provide opportunities for the UK to become a leader in new technology.”
“With road safety at the core of the pilot and the legislation, we are committed to taking bold steps to foster job creation, advance innovation, and facilitate transformative plans in the UK industry.”
The DfT emphasized that autonomous vehicles could enhance transport options for millions, especially by offering new public transport solutions in rural areas to those unable to drive.
Thanks to technology from Wayve and fellow UK company Oxa (formerly Oxbotica), self-driving vehicles have been under development for over a decade. However, during all road tests for cars and buses, safety drivers have been present to assume control if necessary.
The Automated Vehicle Act mandates that self-driving vehicles must be approved following thorough testing.
Our earlier commitment to launching Robotaxis in London has yet to realize. The unmanned bus service started in Edinburgh in 2023 has been halted due to a lack of ridership.
Nonetheless, automated taxi services in the U.S. are currently conducting hundreds of thousands of paid rides, although progress has not been without challenges. General Motors has abandoned its autonomous service plans after several incidents, including ones that led to severe injuries for pedestrians. Early indications, however, suggest that self-driving taxis are safer, and some users, particularly women, prefer to use unmanned services.
Wayve co-founder and CEO Alex Kendall stated that accelerated testing will position the UK as a leader in fully autonomous vehicles, adding, “These initial pilots will help establish public confidence and unlock new job opportunities, services, and markets.”
“We are excited about what the future holds,” said Gavin Jackson, CEO of Oxa. “Clear regulations will open up the market and encourage transport companies to embrace the advantages of self-driving cars across the nation. Today’s announcement signifies that the UK is prepared for this technology.”
Source: www.theguardian.com
