Uber will test self-driving taxis the next year in London

The transportation company is collaborating with Wayve, a UK internet company, to introduce bookable trips through its app in the nation’s capital.

After the Automated Vehicles Act takes effect in late 2027, more self-driving taxis are anticipated to be made available.

The action follows the announcement by the UK Labour government that a trial phase for self-driving cars would begin in the spring of 2026.

Autonomous technology will produce safer roads in the UK, 38,000 jobs, and £42 billion for the economy, according to the Department for Transport (DfT).

Furthermore, it would enhance accessibility for individuals who are unable or unable to drive, as well as transportation choices in UK rural areas.

According to Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, “the future of transport is coming.” Jobs, investment, and the chance for the UK to lead the world in new technologies might all be brought about by self-driving cars.

The UK will be in a leading position for completely autonomous cars thanks to the faster trials, according to Wayve CEO and co-founder Alex Kendall, who also stated: “These early pilots will help build public trust and unlock new jobs, services, and markets.”

The London Assembly’s Labour transport spokesman, Elly Baker, was concerned that both private taxi drivers and London Black Cab would be negatively impacted.

While there may be opportunities to build and manage autonomous vehicles, current taxi and private hire drivers shouldn’t worry about falling behind, she told The Guardian.

The development of self-driving taxis is something out of “fantasy land,” according to Steve McNamara, general secretary of the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association.

“It’s likely that flying taxis will be introduced in London before autonomous ones,” he remarked to the publication.