Uber has announced a significant partnership with UK-based autonomous vehicle technology company Wayve to launch self-driving taxis in London by 2025. The collaboration marks Uber’s strategic re-entry into the autonomous vehicle market after selling its internal self-driving unit in 2020. Wayve’s approach to autonomous driving technology differs from competitors by utilizing advanced AI and machine learning systems that learn to drive like humans, rather than relying heavily on pre-mapped routes and extensive sensor arrays. The company’s AI system uses camera-first technology and deep learning to adapt to new environments and road conditions, making it particularly suitable for complex urban environments like London. The initial rollout will involve a fleet of electric vehicles equipped with Wayve’s autonomous technology, operating within Uber’s existing ride-hailing network. Safety drivers will remain present during the initial phases of deployment. This partnership represents a significant milestone in the commercialization of autonomous vehicle technology in Europe and demonstrates growing confidence in AI-driven transportation solutions. The collaboration also aligns with London’s environmental goals, as the robotaxis will be electric vehicles. Both companies emphasize that their focus is on ensuring safety and reliability while gradually expanding the service across London’s diverse and challenging road network.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/uber-teams-up-with-wayve-to-launch-robotaxis-in-london-2025-6