Uber has announced plans to introduce self-driving taxis on London’s busy streets from spring 2026, in partnership with AI start-up Wayve.
This move follows the UK Government’s decision to accelerate trials of automated commercial taxis and public transport services to begin next spring.
Previously, these trials were scheduled to start after the Automated Vehicles Act comes into force in 2027.
The initial phase will include a human safety driver in the vehicle, ready to take control in case of an emergency.
Eventually, the service aims to become fully driverless, offering a glimpse of the future for urban transport in the UK.
Uber currently runs similar self-driving trials in the US, where road systems are generally simpler than London’s complex layout.
Uber’s Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Macdonald, said London is “one of the world’s busiest and most complex urban environments”.
He added that the London trial “brings us closer to making autonomy a safe and reliable option for riders everywhere”.
Wayve co-founder Alex Kendall described the launch as “a defining moment” that could transform everyday transport in the UK.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander called it “the future of transport”, highlighting opportunities for job creation and investment.
The government aims to ensure safety, with legislation requiring self-driving vehicles to match competent human driving standards.
Automated vehicles are expected to reduce accidents by reacting faster and avoiding human errors like distraction or fatigue.
The Department for Transport says the technology could create 38,000 jobs and add £42 billion to the UK economy by 2035.
