London Trials Robotaxis Amid Driver Protests

Wayve has partnered with Uber to introduce London’s first autonomous-cabs for hire. Under current rules the service operates with a human safety driver in the front seat, and Transport for London (TfL) has granted consent for the limited rollout that began in September. The pilot is confined to a small fleet, but Uber has announced plans to deploy 100,000 Nvidia-powered robotaxis worldwide starting next year.

The Guardian

TfL issues passenger-service licences, while the Department for Transport (DfT) decides whether autonomous vehicles may operate. In this framework the DfT would issue permits for fully driverless services, leaving TfL able only to grant or refuse consent rather than regulate day-to-day usage. TfL has warned that this mirrors the early Uber entry into London, which led to two licence refusals for failing the “fit and proper” test.

The Guardian

More than 100,000 people are on Uber’s waitlist in London, while the city’s private-hire market employs roughly 121,000 drivers. A Centre for British Progress report estimates that over 400,000 UK drivers could see their work become “obsolete” as robotaxis expand. The App Drivers and Couriers Union (ADCU) plans protests outside Wayve’s London base this weekend, echoing a similar action at Waymo’s Park Royal site in August. Drivers such as Florentina Ghiuzan, a 42-year-old ADCU member, say earnings have not improved and fear further loss once robotaxis enter the market. The GMB union is calling for a “just transition” that includes reskilling and support for displaced workers.

The Guardian

• “I think we should all be worried,” — Florentina Ghiuzan

The Guardian

• “Our earnings are the same or even lower since I started – and with the robotaxis on the market it could get even worse.” — Florentina Ghiuzan

The Guardian

• “We are in conversations with the government and local stakeholders to ensure we can realise the promise of AVs while not leaving drivers and communities behind.” — An Uber

The Guardian