Uber ‘ready to launch’ robotaxi services in UK with full deployment focused around DfT consultation
- Perry Richardson
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
Ride-hailing firms are preparing to launch autonomous services on UK roads, with Uber confirming readiness to deploy robotaxis once regulations are in place. The earliest rollout could take place in 2026, following the passing of the Automated Vehicles (AV) Act.
Andrew Macdonald, Uber’s senior vice president of mobility, told the BBC: “We’re ready to launch robotaxis in the UK as soon as the regulatory environment is ready for us.”
The AV Act, now law, outlines a clear framework for self-driving technology and paves the way for its use on public roads. Government consultations are underway, with full deployment targeted for 2027.
Introduced during the King’s Speech, the legislation allows for the safe operation of vehicles using advanced technology. It places the UK in a leading position globally for regulating autonomous vehicles.
The Department for Transport says the act could unlock a £42 billion industry and create 38,000 skilled jobs by 2035. The act also focuses on road safety, aiming to reduce human error in collisions. Currently, human error accounts for 88% of all road incidents. Self-driving systems will need to meet or exceed the safety performance of competent human drivers.
British companies like Wayve and Oxa are already trialling self-driving technology in locations such as London and Oxford. Wayve recently secured over $1 billion in investment for UK-based AI development.
Since 2018, the UK’s self-driving sector has drawn in £475 million and created around 1,500 jobs. The technology is expected to impact sectors facing driver shortages, including haulage and mining.
A key feature of the AV Act is the clear allocation of legal responsibility. When a vehicle is in self-driving mode, the driver is not liable. Instead, the responsibility lies with manufacturers, software developers and insurers.
An independent investigation body will examine incidents involving autonomous vehicles, mirroring aviation standards. Companies will be required to maintain vehicle safety and comply with UK laws continuously.
The legislation also targets improved mobility access, especially for people unable to drive and those in rural areas, aiming to reduce isolation and increase transport options.
