Self-driving taxis approved for London streets this summer

Key facts

• Transport for London (TfL) has granted Wayve a license to operate autonomous vehicles in the City.
• Uber will manage and operate the fleet of Wayve's autonomous Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles.
• Test rides for self-driving taxis are expected to be available in London later this summer.
• A qualified human driver must be present in the vehicle during operation.
• GMB Union has voiced concerns about the implications of autonomous vehicles on drivers.

Transport for London (TfL) has granted British autonomous driving firm Wayve a license to operate its self-driving Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles in the City. Uber will manage and operate the fleet, with test rides expected to be available later this summer. The vehicles are equipped with Wayve's AI driving software and have been modified with cameras on the roof and mirrors. Under the license terms, a qualified human driver must be present to oversee the trip and take over if needed. Wayve stated that the move is an important step towards making autonomous rides a reality in the capital, promising safer, cleaner, and quieter streets. However, GMB Union, representing private hire drivers, expressed concern, urging TfL to proceed with extreme caution due to the implications for drivers.