Robotaxi-trailblazers, Waymo, have just announced that they’re planning to launch their autonomous vehicles in London next year. That’s right, folks: driverless taxis are officially coming to the capital, and Londoners could start seeing the rather revolutionary vehicles rolling through the streets of the city in the coming weeks, as Waymo begins its test drives.
Waymo’s London launch comes following the success of its vehicles in five cities across the US. This will mark the company’s first venture across the pond, and London will be the first European city to get the Waymo-treatment.
The wheels were put in motion last year when the UK government approved the Automated Vehicles Act. But under current legislation, vehicles can’t run without a human safety driver on board until early 2026. Waymo have been in talks with both the Department for Transport and Transport for London in order to get their hands on the necessary approvals (which – as of yet – have not been granted).
How do the Waymo driverless taxis work?
In order to get the cars on the road, Waymo meticulously maps out the city, detailing each and every sign, lane, curb, and crossing. The vehicles then navigate the the streets using the intricate map, real-time sensor data, and AI that keeps track of its exact location at all times. This enables the vehicles to predict things before they happen and plan for the safest outcome of each situation. Waymo vehicles have racked up 20 million miles of real-world driving in the States, as well as 20 billion miles in simulation. The autonomous vehicles are set to reduce road injuries and deaths, as the driverless cars have faster reaction times than human drivers. If all goes to plan, it could be full speed ahead for these driverless taxis next year. Welcome to the future, folks.
“We’re thrilled to bring the reliability, safety and magic of Waymo to Londoners” said co-CEO of Waymo, Tekedra Mawakana. “Waymo is making roads safer and transportation more accessible where we operate. We’ve demonstrated how to responsibly scale fully autonomous ride-hailing, and we can’t wait to expand the benefits of our technology to the United Kingdom.”
“I’m delighted that Waymo intends to bring their services to London next year, under our proposed piloting scheme” said Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander. “Boosting the AV sector will increase accessible transport options alongside bringing jobs, investment, and opportunities to the UK. Cutting edge investment like this will help us deliver our mission to be world-leaders in new technology and spearhead national renewal that delivers real change in our communities.”
Find out more and keep your eyes peeled for updates on Waymo’s London plans here.