Uber’s expansion of robotaxi services has taken a new turn with the launch of autonomous trips in London in partnership with Wayve, a British artificial intelligence company.
Recall that Uber has exited Nigeria after operating its ride-hailing business in the country for more than 12 years.
According to a Reuters report on Thursday, London has become the second European city where Uber offers autonomous trips after Zagreb.
Uber will initially offer fewer than 20 Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles powered by Wayve’s autonomous driving technology. The company may match passengers who request UberX, Uber Comfort or Uber Electric with one of the self-driving cars at no extra cost.
Initially, a licensed operator will remain inside the vehicle to monitor each trip. Uber expects to introduce fully autonomous operations subject to regulatory approval.
According to Sarfraz Maredia, Uber’s Global Head of Autonomous Mobility, the launch will help build public and government trust in the technology.
“This will build credibility with consumers as well as with the government,” Maredia said.
British Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander described the launch as a major milestone for London’s transport network.
Initially, a licensed operator will remain inside the vehicle to monitor each trip. Uber expects to introduce fully autonomous operations subject to regulatory approval.
According to Sarfraz Maredia, Uber’s Global Head of Autonomous Mobility, the launch will help build public and government trust in the technology.
“This is a major milestone for the future of transport in London, as British innovation brings this technology onto our roads and gives passengers more choice,” Alexander said.
Backstory…
This comes barely twenty four hours after the company announced on Wednesday that it is exiting the Nigerian market after 12 years of operation.
The platform, which first launched in Lagos in 2014, communicated the decision through an official email sent directly to its customers. Uber explained that the move to cease operations followed a comprehensive performance and business review.
“We are writing to share some difficult news. After a thorough review of our business, we have made the tough decision to wind down our operations in Nigeria, effective 2 September 2026,” the service provider, ” they said in the statement.
Read Also: Ride Hailing Company, Uber Announces Shutdown in Nigeria, Uganda
