Transport for London (TfL) has licensed British autonomous driving firm Wayve to operate its cars in the City. This decision means robotaxis are expected to make their first appearance in the capital later this year.
Wayve announced on Wednesday that TfL has approved a fleet of autonomous Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles to operate across London with Private Hire Vehicles Licenses. Uber will manage and operate these vehicles, with test rides for Londoners available "later this summer."
Under the terms of the licence, a qualified human driver must be present in the car to oversee the trip and provide support or take over driving if needed. The driver, operator, and vehicle must all hold licenses with the same licensing authority.
The vehicles planned for use on the City's streets have been modified with cameras on the roof and mirrors. Wayve stated that these cars "were inspected to confirm that these vehicles meet all of TfL's policy and safety standards."
GMB Union, which represents private hire drivers in London, described TfL's decision as "a worrying development." Matthew Wright, GMB regional organiser, urged TfL to "proceed with extreme caution."