Uber has launched 15 self-driving taxis in the UK, marking the introduction of the country’s first robotaxis, although the vehicles will still have safety drivers on board.
The taxis are being operated through Uber’s ride-hailing app. Despite their self-driving capability, passengers will not travel without a human presence in the vehicle. Safety drivers will remain inside the cars as the service is introduced.
The launch represents an early stage for autonomous taxi services in the UK, combining automated driving technology with human supervision. It also allows passengers to experience the vehicles while safety drivers continue to be present during journeys.
The service has now been launched with the 15-vehicle fleet. No further details about the operating area, timetable for expansion or the vehicles’ technical specifications were provided in the supplied material.