(Credit: Bloomberg/Getty Images)
Uber and Lyft have partnered with Chinese tech giant Baidu to launch robotaxi pilot programs in London next year.
Uber's testing is expected to begin with Baidu's Apollo Go cars in the first half of 2026. Lyft, on the other hand, will be using the Apollo Go RT6 once the required regulatory approvals come through.
"We're working closely with Transport for London regulators and local communities to expand the rideshare market and create more opportunities for everyone," tweeted Lyft CEO David Risher.
The UK does not allow fully autonomous cars on its roads yet. Earlier this year, however, the government had fast-tracked its self-driving plans to let companies begin testing their robotaxis.
Until spring 2026, these tests must have a competent human driver behind the wheel. After spring 2026, companies are allowed to run public trials. Commercial robotaxi services, however, aren't expected until the Automated Vehicles Act takes effect in the second half of 2027.
Uber and Lyft arrive in London for their tests after Waymo. The Google-owned company announced its plans in October and began its human-supervised tests this month. Waymo's London fleet is managed by Moove.
When it comes to self-driving taxis, Waymo is the leader in the US, reportedly completing over 450,000 rides each week. The company aims to raise that number to a million by the end of next year.
Baidu, on the other hand, is growing rapidly worldwide. Its fleet has completed over 17 million rides in 22 cities across the globe, according to Risher.