Baidu Enters London's Robotaxi Scene

Baidu has started testing its autonomous vehicles in London, marking a significant milestone in the UK's autonomous vehicle rollout. This move comes as part of the company's partnership with Lyft and Freenow, a German taxi and multi-mobility app that Lyft now owns.

A Growing List of Robotaxi Competitors

London is emerging as a key battleground for companies vying to be first to market with robotaxis. In April, Waymo began testing its autonomous vehicles with human safety operators in the city, while Uber and its self-driving tech partner, Wayve, announced plans to launch a robotaxi service later this year. Additionally, Baidu's Apollo Go RT6 robotaxi will eventually be available through Freenow, which Lyft acquired in 2025 for $197 million.

The UK government is in the process of creating autonomous vehicle regulations and opened applications in May for companies interested in an AV pilot program that lets companies test self-driving vehicles under government oversight.

Regulatory Approval Crucial for Launch

Baidu and Freenow by Lyft expect to invite the public to hail their robotaxis in 2027, pending regulatory approval. The companies are continuing discussions with safety and city officials, including Transport for London (TfL) and the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CCAV).

• Dozens of test vehicles will operate within London's borough of Brent.
• The service will employ a hybrid network, with human drivers operating taxis and private-hire vehicles working alongside the robotaxis.
• As a platform with deep roots in the taxi industry, Freenow by Lyft's priority is ensuring that autonomous technology supports the professional drivers who keep London moving.

When the service does launch, it will mark a significant step towards the widespread adoption of autonomous vehicles in the UK.