Summary
Uber plans to test driverless taxis in London next spring using technology developed by the UK company Wayve. These tests will start earlier than initially planned due to recent changes in UK regulations. Uber is still deciding if these vehicles will be available for public use during the trial.
Key Facts
- Uber will trial driverless taxis in London in spring, using Wayve's technology.
- These are autonomous cars, meaning they operate without a human driver.
- UK regulations were updated to allow such trials earlier than the original 2027 target.
- It is undecided if the public can use these taxis during the trial period.
- UK government estimates the driverless car industry could create 38,000 jobs by 2035.
- Robotaxis have been tested in other countries like the US, China, UAE, and Singapore.
- In Austin, Texas, Uber's driverless taxis operate up to 20 hours a day.
- Studies show automated vehicles might be less prone to accidents compared to human-driven cars.
