Uber and Wayve are set to launch a robotaxi pilot program in London, with a targeted spring 2026 rollout.This ambitious move, spurred by the UKS Automated Vehicles Act, marks a meaningful step toward autonomous ridesharing. The initial phase will focus on central London. Wayve’s advanced AV2.0 technology, which doesn’t rely on pre-existing maps, is central to this project.Uber’s partnership with Wayve seeks to combine its ridesharing network with self-driving capabilities to overcome safety concerns and establish public trust. News Directory 3 provides key updates on this project.the companies aim to overcome hurdles that have stalled efforts elsewhere, and the project could generate thousands of jobs and billions for the UK economy. Discover what’s next as this groundbreaking initiative unfolds.
Uber, Wayve Plan Autonomous ridesharing Pilot in London
Updated June 10, 2025
Uber and Wayve, a U.K. technology firm, are teaming up to launch an autonomous ridesharing pilot program in London. this move follows the accelerated passage of Britain’s Automated Vehicles Act (AVA), which legalizes commercial use of self-driving cars and is now slated for spring 2026.
The initial phase will focus on central London before expanding to greater London, pending regulatory approval and safety validation. The companies hope to overcome hurdles that have stalled similar efforts in the U.S., including accidents and public skepticism.
Wayve’s AV2.0 technology, which doesn’t rely on pre-existing maps, is designed to operate any car on any road. The company launched its “AI-500 Roadshow” to demonstrate the technology in 500 cities by the end of 2025. While the roadshow has reached 90 cities, Wayve reports triumphant tests across asia, Europe, and North America.
Uber invested in Wayve last year,seeking to combine its ridesharing network with Wayve’s self-driving capabilities.Details regarding the size and models of the test fleet are still under wraps, though Wayve has expressed interest in partnering with Nissan.
“This is a defining moment for UK autonomy,” said Alex Kendall, Wayve CEO. “With Uber and a global OEM partner, we’re preparing to put our AI Driver technology into real service on the streets of London, delivering on our AV2.0 vision for scalable autonomy.”
“We’re excited to take the next step in our journey with Wayve, bringing autonomous mobility to one of the world’s busiest and most complex urban environments,” said Andrew Macdonald, Uber president and COO. “our vision is to make autonomy a safe and reliable option for riders everywhere, and this trial in London brings that future closer to reality.”
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander estimates the testing phase could generate 38,000 jobs and contribute £42 billion to the UK economy.
What’s next
As the U.K.’s first potential robotaxi service, Uber and Wayve must address safety and trust concerns to ensure public acceptance of autonomous ridesharing.
