- Waymo plans a London robotaxi launch in 2026 with Jaguar I-Pace EVs.
- Initial testing will use human safety drivers before going fully autonomous.
- Fleet operations will be managed locally through partner Moove.
Waymo, the self-driving car pioneer owned by Alphabet, has announced plans to launch a commercial robotaxi service in London in 2026. This marks the company’s second international expansion after Tokyo. The move follows hints earlier this year, including London-based job postings and the company’s acquisition of U.K. startup Latent Logic in 2019, which bolstered Waymo’s self-driving simulation technology.
Testing and Fleet Operations in London
Waymo will deploy its all-electric Jaguar I-Pace vehicles on London streets, initially with human safety drivers. The company plans to transition to fully driverless testing before inviting public riders to hail its robotaxis. While Waymo has not disclosed the fleet size or the exact timeline for removing safety drivers, it confirmed that service is expected next year, pending U.K. government approvals.
To manage operations, Waymo will partner with Moove, replicating a strategy used in Phoenix, where autonomous vehicle management is handled by local partners. This approach mirrors other U.S. markets, such as Austin and Atlanta, where Uber manages vehicle charging, cleaning, and rider access, while Waymo oversees the technology and autonomous operations.
Waymo’s Growing Global Footprint
Over the past two years, Waymo has accelerated its commercial robotaxi expansion beyond Phoenix, entering cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, Austin, and Atlanta. Future U.S. markets include Miami, Nashville, and Washington, D.C., demonstrating the company’s ambition to become a global leader in autonomous ride-hailing services.
Also Read: Lyft Robotaxis Launch in Atlanta
Looking Ahead
London’s streets could soon see the city’s first fully autonomous, all-electric robotaxis, a step that highlights Waymo’s ongoing commitment to redefining urban mobility. As regulatory approvals progress and testing ramps up, 2026 may mark a pivotal year for the adoption of self-driving technology in one of the world’s busiest cities.
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