LONDON (AP) - Waymo, the pioneer of robotaxi technology, has announced its plans to expand its operations to London in 2024. This move marks a significant step in the company's efforts to roll out its driverless ride-hailing service on an international scale.
On Wednesday, Waymo revealed that it will begin testing its self-driving vehicles on the streets of London in the coming weeks. During these tests, a human “safety driver” will be behind the wheel to ensure safety as the company seeks government approval for its services. In a blog post, Waymo emphasized its commitment to “lay the groundwork” necessary for a successful launch in London, indicating that it will actively engage with both local and national leaders to secure the required permissions for its commercial ride-hailing service.
Waymo's self-driving taxis have been operational in the United States for several years, currently serving major cities such as Phoenix, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Austin. This year, the company has also begun exploring international opportunities, including a partnership for testing in Japan, though a launch date for commercial services in that region has yet to be established.
Originally starting as a secret project within Google, Waymo was later spun off as a separate entity from the tech giant. As it enters the U.K. market, Waymo will need to adhere to new regulations governing self-driving vehicles. These regulations stipulate that autonomous cars must achieve safety standards “at least as high as careful and competent human drivers” and undergo thorough safety checks before being permitted on public roads.
Waymo is also set to participate in a pilot program aimed at “small-scale” self-driving taxi and bus services, which the U.K. government plans to initiate in spring 2026. Compliance with local regulations from Transport for London, the authority responsible for licensing traditional black cabs and other taxi operators such as Uber, will be essential for Waymo's operational success in this new market.
