Uber and Lyft are preparing to launch pilot programs for Baidu’s autonomous Apollo Go robotaxis in London as early as 2026. The move places the ride-hailing giants alongside Waymo and British startup Wayve in testing self-driving vehicles on London’s streets, signaling a major expansion of autonomous vehicle operations in the city.
Regulatory Hurdles and Deployment Plans
Lyft CEO David Risher announced the company’s plans on social media, stating that testing will begin pending local regulatory approval. Lyft intends to scale operations by deploying “hundreds” of Baidu’s RT6 electric SUVs, although a firm timeline for commercial launch remains unspecified. Uber has also confirmed its participation, with testing expected to commence in the first half of 2026 as per their July agreement with Baidu.
Global Expansion of Robotaxi Partnerships
This dual deployment in London represents a broader trend of ride-hailing companies partnering with various autonomous vehicle developers. Uber and Lyft have been actively forging alliances with Baidu, Waymo, and other tech firms to establish operations in key cities worldwide. This collaborative approach allows them to bypass the massive capital and technological investment required to build fully autonomous fleets independently.
The introduction of Baidu’s robotaxis in London is a significant step towards wider adoption of autonomous vehicle technology. The expansion is driven by the potential for increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved safety in urban transportation. The actual pace of commercial rollout will depend heavily on regulatory approval and the performance of these vehicles in real-world conditions.
The race to deploy self-driving taxis is heating up, and London is quickly becoming a central testing ground for this technology.
