Uber has launched autonomous ride-hailing services in London, a day after shutting operations in Nigeria, expanding its footprint in Europe.
The launch, announced on Thursday, is supported by the company’s work with British self-driving technology firm Wayve, which provides the AI Driver powering the vehicles.
Sarfraz Maredia, Uber’s global head of autonomous mobility, said the London launch was designed to build confidence with both consumers and government as the company advances its autonomous mobility ambitions globally.
“This will build credibility with consumers as well as with the government,” Maredia said.
Read also: Uber leaves Nigeria after 12 years, exposing economics of ride-hailing
Alex Kendall, Wayve CEO and co-founder, described London as the ideal proving ground for the technology, given the complexity of the city’s road environment.
“We’re proud to introduce the Wayve AI Driver to the public for the first time right here in London, our home city and one of the most complex driving environments in the world,” Kendall said.
Fewer than 20 Wayve-powered Ford Mustang Mach-E electric vehicles are available at launch, with a licensed human operator on board to monitor each car before fully driverless operations begin, pending regulatory approvals.
Riders who request an UberX, Uber Comfort, or Uber Electric in covered areas could be matched with a Wayve-powered autonomous vehicle at no additional cost.
Uber and Wayve first announced their partnership in 2024, with Uber making a direct investment in the British startup and both parties committing to deploy Wayve-powered vehicles across several markets.
Read also: Uber’s African retreat deepens as Nigeria, Uganda join exit list
Wayve’s technology uses cameras, radar and AI models to handle driving tasks and respond to changing road conditions. The company says its system can adapt to different roads, vehicles, weather conditions and cities.
The technology is already available on a limited basis for riders in London. Once a rider is matched with an autonomous vehicle, the Uber app will notify the rider and allow them to accept the trip or choose a conventional vehicle.
Uber will handle rider support, while Wayve remains responsible for its autonomous driving technology. The companies will also operate a London depot for vehicle maintenance, charging and other fleet needs.
Dara Khosrowshahi, Uber CEO, further said that the company will continue investing in ride-hailing, delivery and autonomous mobility, with plans to expand vehicle partnerships beyond London and introduce self-driving rides with Wayve, using Nissan Leaf vehicles in Tokyo later this year.
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