Robotaxi trials underway in London's Brent borough
Freenow by Lyft partners with Baidu for sustainable travel trial
A trial of robotaxis has commenced in London, spearheaded by minicab app company Freenow by Lyft in collaboration with Chinese technology company Baidu.
Initially, the trial is focused on the Brent borough in north-west London and entails human drivers being positioned to take control if necessary.
The aim is for these self-driving taxis to enter public service next year.
Freenow by Lyft CEO Thomas Zimmermann highlighted the integration of Baidu's Apollo Go vehicles as a step towards providing Londoners with more sustainable and shared mobility options.
Baidu's vice president Nan Yang remarked on the significance of the Apollo Go vehicles debuting in London, noting the trial’s importance in demonstrating the technology’s maturity and commitment to market expansion.
Freenow by Lyft’s survey reveals Londoners’ keen interest in autonomous vehicles, with 58% expressing a desire for a ride experience and 25% excited about diverse transport opportunities.
In addition to this collaboration, UK technology company Wayve announced Uber's plans to use robotaxis in upcoming months following successful tests.
Alphabet's Waymo is similarly testing self-driving minicabs in London, aiming for commercial launch.
Concerns around the integration of driverless vehicles have been raised by shared transport charity CoMoUK, advocating for pooled rides and shared autonomous fleets.