Uber Launches UK's First Robotaxis with Safety Drivers

Ride‑hailing service X has begun a limited rollout of autonomous vehicles, deploying 15 self‑driving taxis across select urban routes. The vehicles are equipped with advanced driver‑assist technology, yet each car will carry a safety driver who can take control if needed.

The pilot, announced last week, is part of the company’s broader effort to test autonomous operations under real‑world conditions. The safety drivers are required by local regulators to ensure passenger safety and to provide data on vehicle performance. City officials say the program will run for six months, during which the company will collect telemetry and incident reports before deciding on a wider deployment.

If the trial meets safety and reliability benchmarks, the company plans to expand the fleet and explore additional routes. The initiative marks a significant step toward integrating autonomous taxis into mainstream transportation services while maintaining regulatory compliance and passenger confidence.