London is on the cusp of a transport revolution as Uber and Wayve have secured minicab licences from Transport for London (TfL), allowing them to operate autonomous taxis in the capital. The first rides are expected to be offered to selected passengers from the 100,000-strong interest list 'later this summer', before a full public rollout.
What has been approved?
Wayve, a British autonomous driving technology company, confirmed that its fleet of fully electric Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles has received private hire vehicle licences from TfL. This clears a major regulatory hurdle, bringing the prospect of hailing a self-driving taxi significantly closer for Londoners.
The robotaxis, which have been tested across London throughout 2026, will initially operate with a human safety driver behind the wheel. To run the cars without a safety driver, Wayve and Uber will need separate permission from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
Soft launch and public rollout
Uber announced that it will begin offering rides on a soft launch basis, starting with some of the 100,000 people who have already registered their interest. This phased approach allows the companies to gather data and refine the service before opening it to the general public.
Sarah Gates, Wayve’s vice president for global affairs and assurance, said: 'This licence is an important step towards giving Londoners the chance to experience autonomous driving technology. The responsible deployment of these vehicles will bring us safer, cleaner and quieter streets, and we’re proud to continue working alongside regulators, communities and the public as we take the next steps towards making autonomous rides a reality in the capital.'
Annie Duvnjak, Uber’s global head of autonomous mobility operations, added: 'This licence is a key milestone in bringing autonomous rides to London on Uber. Our interest list has seen an incredible response from Londoners who are excited to experience Wayve’s British-built autonomous driving technology.'
Safety and regulatory context
TfL has stressed that safety is its 'top priority' and that any new vehicle licensed to carry passengers must align with its Vision Zero target of eliminating all deaths and serious injuries on London’s roads by 2041. The approval comes after extensive testing and collaboration with the companies to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Reactions from unions and drivers
Not everyone has welcomed the development. Matthew Wright from the GMB Union, which represents thousands of private hire drivers in London, called the decision a 'worrying development'. He said: 'We can’t go charging ahead with new technologies without considering the implications of autonomous vehicles on all parties.'
The App Drivers and Couriers Union (ACDU) has also opposed the rollout, holding a protest outside Waymo’s Park Royal site. The union stated: 'Thousands of private hire drivers are already facing falling earnings, insecure work, and unfair treatment. The rollout of autonomous vehicles without proper safeguards risks making these challenges even worse.'
What’s next?
As the summer progresses, Londoners on the interest list may receive invitations to book a ride in one of Wayve’s robotaxis. The full public launch is expected to follow, with the companies aiming to demonstrate the safety and efficiency of autonomous vehicles in one of the world’s busiest urban environments.
