Robotaxis receive license for autonomous driving tests in London
A fleet of driverless cars, which will be used by Uber in the British capital, has received authorization to operate as taxis. The initiative, which represents an important step in urban mobility, was confirmed on August 6, 2026, with the announcement of the licenses.
Technology company Wayve has confirmed that Transport for London (TfL) has granted chauffeur-driven hire vehicle (PHV) permits to several of its Ford Mustang Mach-E models. These cars are fully electric and equipped with autonomous technology.
Uber reported that some of the 100,000 people who showed interest in trying robotaxis will have the opportunity to take trial trips at the “end of summer”, before full release to the public. Expectations are high among Londoners due to the technological innovation.
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During this testing phase, a human driver will remain in the driver’s seat. Your role will be to monitor the route and be prepared to take control of the vehicle at any time, ensuring safety.
After proving the technology’s safety, Uber and Wayve will still need additional approval from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). This permission will be essential to operate the vehicles without the presence of a driver.
Wayve and Uber comment on the new phase of mobility in London
Sarah Gates, vice president of global affairs and assurance at Wayve, said this license is a milestone. It offers London residents the chance to experience the innovative autonomous driving technology coming to the city.
The Wayve executive added that responsible implementation of these vehicles will result in safer, quieter and cleaner streets. The company remains committed to working with regulators and the community to make autonomous cars a reality in the capital.
Annie Duvnjak, global director of autonomous mobility operations at Uber, said the license marks a crucial step forward. It will allow Uber to offer autonomous travel in London, with technology developed in Britain by Wayve.
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Duvnjak also mentioned that the stakeholder list for autonomous taxi services has had an overwhelming response. Londoners are eager to use autonomous driving technology.
Safety and challenges in autonomous transportation
A TfL spokesperson reiterated that safety is the body’s top priority. Any new vehicle licensed to transport passengers in the city must align with the target of eliminating deaths and serious injuries on London’s streets by 2041.
The adaptations carried out by Wayve on the Mustang Mach-E, including the six installed cameras, were rigorously examined by experts. They concluded that the modifications do not compromise passenger safety.
Importantly, under the terms of the PHV license, a qualified driver must be present and maintain full responsibility for the vehicle on all journeys.
Matthew Wright, regional organizer for the GMB union, which represents thousands of ride-hailing drivers in London, called TfL’s decision “worrying”. The entity expresses concern about the future of the category.
He said it is not possible to move quickly with new technologies without analyzing the implications for all parties involved. The union seeks to ensure that the transition to autonomous vehicles considers the impact on workers.
