Uber, Wayve Set 2026 London Driverless Taxi Trial

Uber and UK-based AI startup Wayve have partnered to launch public-road trials of Level 4 fully autonomous vehicles in London, aiming for a spring 2026 start pending regulatory approval. This marks Uber’s first pilot program involving rides without a safety driver, utilizing Wayve’s Embodied AI technology, which can operate on any car and road without prior mapping. The pilot was made possible by the passage of the UK's Automated Vehicles Act, which provides a fast-tracked legal framework for commercial self-driving services. London’s complex road network and traffic laws will serve as a key testbed, with potential for the service to expand across Europe. Uber’s announcement prompted a positive reaction in technology and AI financial markets, reflecting investor optimism. Both companies are coordinating with the UK Department of Transport and Transport for London throughout the approval process.