Transport for London (TfL) has approved private hire vehicle (PHV) licences for several Uber robotaxis powered by Wayve's end-to-end AI driving technology, bringing self-driving taxis in London a step closer to reality.
The autonomous vehicles use a suite of cameras, radar sensors and onboard computers to interpret their surroundings in real time rather than relying on preloaded maps. Under the terms of the approval, a qualified safety driver must remain in the vehicle and is responsible for both the car and its passengers.
Wayve and Uber prepare London robotaxi trial
Wayve's robotaxis are expected to begin operating in London later this summer through Uber. More than 100,000 people have already registered interest ahead of a wider public rollout.
The trial fleet will consist of fully electric Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles equipped with surround-view cameras, radar systems and Wayve's AI software.
Unlike many autonomous vehicle platforms, Wayve's technology does not use LiDAR sensors or detailed HD maps. Instead, environmental data is fed directly into its AV2.0 neural network, which controls steering, braking and acceleration.
AI drivers navigate using real-time data
Wayve says its AI driving system can operate without HD maps, geofencing or hand-coded decision rules. Rather than following pre-defined routes, the technology continuously analyses road, traffic and weather conditions to make driving decisions in real time.
According to the company, this approach allows vehicles to adapt to new environments more quickly, helping accelerate deployment in different cities.
What happens next?
The Department for Transport views the London pilot as an opportunity to assess the safety and effectiveness of autonomous vehicles on UK roads. Wayve has been testing self-driving technology in the capital since 2018.
For now, qualified drivers must remain behind the wheel and be ready to take control when required. Before fully driverless services can launch, Wayve and Uber will also need approval from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.
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