Waymo, a US-based technology company known for operating robotaxis in San Francisco and other cities, has announced plans to introduce its fully autonomous cars to London in 2026. The initiative is part of an effort to expand their services internationally, although specific operational details remain limited. The UK government has been working to accelerate the integration of driverless cars through potential public trials starting in spring 2026, yet regulatory frameworks are still being finalized, and initial trials may require a safety driver.
In collaboration with Uber, British firm Wayve has disclosed intentions to develop public trials of level 4 fully autonomous vehicles in London. This follows a history of ambitious promises for driverless rides in the UK, including plans from Addison Lee in 2018 and near successes from Nissan in 2017. Despite these claims, the reality of widespread autonomous taxi services has yet to materialize in Britain, while similar services have become established in the US and parts of China.
The upcoming introduction of Waymo in London raises questions about how effectively these vehicles will navigate the unique complexities of UK streets, especially in bustling areas like Charing Cross Road. Critics argue that the absence of fully developed regulations, particularly concerning pedestrian behavior, could pose challenges for the operation of driverless taxis.
Waymo’s confident positioning stems from having undertaken over 100 million miles of autonomous driving across various terrains in the US. However, operational procedures must still align with UK regulations as Waymo prepares to establish the necessary infrastructure. With predictions of creating up to 38,000 jobs in autonomous vehicle sectors, concerns persist regarding the potential displacement of existing driving professionals. Public sentiment appears cautiously skeptical amidst broader worries about artificial intelligence’s implications for employment and safety. The timeline for broader licensing and implementation remains uncertain as stakeholders await regulatory developments.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/news/ng-interactive/2025/oct/18/driverless-cars-uk-autonomy-waymo-london