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Wayve Secures $1.2B Funding, Plans London Robotaxi Trials

2/27/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Wayve, the UK-based company, has raised $1.2 billion in a Series D funding round, valuing the company at $8.6 billion.
Eclipse, Balderton, and SoftBank led the round, with investments from Microsoft, Nvidia, and Uber.
Wayve plans robotaxi trials in London by 2026 and aims to expand to more than ten international markets.
UK officials support Wayve as a key transportation player, noting its approach operates without high-definition maps.

History

Historical Context

The UK's "Road to Zero" strategy, launched in 2021, aims for net-zero emissions by 2050, promoting sustainable transport. Founded in 2017, Wayve has attracted over $1.3 billion in funding, including $1.2 billion from SoftBank and Eclipse. Its innovative autonomous vehicle technology, which relies on machine learning rather than high-definition maps, aligns with the UK's vision for advanced urban mobility solutions.

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Story summary

Wayve, the UK-based company, has raised $1.2 billion in a Series D funding round, valuing the company at $8.6 billion.
Eclipse, Balderton, and SoftBank led the round, with investments from Microsoft, Nvidia, and Uber.
Wayve plans robotaxi trials in London by 2026 and aims to expand to more than ten international markets.
UK officials support Wayve as a key transportation player, noting its approach operates without high-definition maps.

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