Waymo, the self‑driving arm of Alphabet, is set to roll out an autonomous ride‑hailing service in London next year. The company announced plans to launch its first fully driver‑less cars on the city’s streets in 2025, following a series of trials in U.K. cities.
The pilot will begin in central London, serving commuters and tourists alike. Waymo’s vehicles will use a combination of lidar, cameras and radar to navigate busy roads without human drivers. Drivers will be on standby to take over if needed, but the goal is a smooth, hands‑off experience for passengers.
“We’ve already gained plenty of insights from our work in the U.S. that will help us adapt to the unique challenges of London’s traffic,” said a Waymo spokesperson. “The city’s dense streets and existing safety infrastructure give us a solid foundation for launching a safe and reliable autonomous service.”
The company has already secured a partnership with a local transport operator, and it is working closely with the UK government to meet safety standards and obtain the necessary regulatory approvals. Waymo will also invest in “community outreach” to inform residents and businesses about the benefits of self‑driving technology, including reduced congestion and lower emissions.
Price points are still being set, but early estimates suggest fares would be comparable to current ride‑share rates. Waymo plans to expand the service beyond London within a few years, making autonomous vehicles a mainstream option across the UK.
Why this matters: If London approves the launch, it could become one of the first global cities to have a commercial driver‑less transport system. The move would show that self‑driving technology is ready to turn into everyday realities, potentially revolutionising how people move around cities.
Consumers, regulators, and tech enthusiasts will be watching closely as Waymo pushes forward with its vision of an autonomous future in London.
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