Uber Launches Robotaxis In London A Day After Quitting Nigeria

Uber has launched autonomous ride-hailing services in London using artificial intelligence technology developed by British self-driving startup Wayve, marking a major expansion of the company’s robotaxi ambitions in Europe.

The launch came just a day after Uber ended its ride-hailing operations in Nigeria, where it had operated for more than a decade. The company said its decision to leave Nigeria followed a review of its business priorities and investment focus.

The London service, launched on Thursday, makes the British capital the second European city after Zagreb, Croatia, where Uber offers autonomous rides.

The initial London rollout involves a small fleet of Ford Mustang Mach-E electric vehicles fitted with Wayve’s autonomous driving technology. However, the cars will still have human safety drivers behind the wheel who can take control if necessary, in line with current UK regulations.

Passengers can be matched with the autonomous vehicles through the Uber app at standard ride prices, although they can decline the option.

The launch highlights Uber’s growing shift towards autonomous mobility as it expands partnerships with self-driving technology companies, even as it scales back operations in some traditional markets.

For Wayve, the London deployment represents a significant commercial test of its AI-based driving technology on one of Europe’s busiest and most complex urban road networks.

Uber has described the partnership as bringing a new form of transport to London, combining Wayve’s autonomous driving technology with its ride-hailing platform.