Uber and Baidu's self-driving mobility platform Apollo Go disclosed that the two parties plan to launch a pilot of self-driving vehicles in London in 2026, and the test is expected to start in the first half of 2026, and provide trip matching to some users through the Uber platform. The relevant arrangements still need to meet UK regulatory requirements and road test specifications, and the size of the vehicle, the scope of operation and whether it will enter larger-scale commercialization all depend on subsequent approvals and pilot progress.
The London pilot is seen as a further extension of the multi-year cooperation announced by the two parties in July 2025, and also means that Apollo Go continues to expand in the right-hand drive market. According to public information, Apollo Go has accumulated more than 240 million kilometers of autonomous driving mileage, covering about 22 cities, with more than 250,000 weekly orders and more than 17 million trips; It has obtained its first local autonomous driving test license and promoted road tests in Hong Kong at the end of 2024. The industry generally suggests that the pilot stage of autonomous driving may still adopt phased, sub-regional and safety redundancy solutions, and passengers need to pay attention to the specific disclosure of insurance liability, data and safety rules.
FAQs
Q: What is Uber doing with Apollo Go in London?
A: Pilot testing of autonomous vehicles is planned in London, with access to Uber's ride-hailing process when eligible.
Q: When is the London pilot expected to start testing?
A: The official statement is that the test will begin in the first half of 2026, and the specific time is subject to regulatory approval and pilot arrangements.
Q: Is the London pilot equivalent to the launch of "driverless taxis" throughout the city?
A: No, pilots usually run in limited areas and scales first, and the scope of commercialization may gradually expand.
Q: Why does Apollo Go emphasize right-hand drive market experience?
A: London is a right-hand drive environment, and Apollo Go has gained experience in right-hand drive road testing in Hong Kong, which helps to adapt to local traffic rules.
