2025-12-23 10:47:44
Baidu is preparing to bring its Apollo Go robotaxi service to London, with the Chinese tech company confirming that a pilot programme is planned for the first half of 2026.
The rollout is being developed with support from both Uber and Lyft, marking one of the most significant collaborations yet between major ride‑hailing platforms and an autonomous vehicle operator.
Uber said it is “excited to accelerate Britain’s leadership in the future of mobility, bringing another safe and reliable travel option to Londoners next year.”
Lyft is also backing the project, with CEO David Risher stating that a combined network of autonomous vehicles and human drivers will “serve all of London’s travel needs” and that the company is working with Transport for London and local communities as preparations continue.
For Baidu, the London trial follows its autonomous operations in Hong Kong, which the company says have helped it gain experience in right‑hand‑drive markets.
The London pilot arrives after years of uneven progress for robotaxis globally. Early deployments in the United States produced mixed results: some cities saw steady testing, while others faced public frustration over stalled vehicles, traffic blockages and concerns from emergency services. One major operator was forced to pause its driverless service entirely after a series of safety incidents triggered regulatory intervention.
Europe has generally taken a cautious approach, allowing only small‑scale trials under tight supervision. London’s dense road network and unpredictable traffic patterns make it one of the most challenging environments yet for autonomous vehicles, but the involvement of Uber, Lyft and Transport for London gives the 2026 pilot significant industry backing.
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