Robotaxis granted licence to operate in London

Self-driving taxis have moved a step closer after Transport for London (TfL) granted private hire licences to a fleet of autonomous vehicles – on the condition that a human driver is present.

Uber said inspectors had confirmed that vehicles using technology by British firm Wayve met all of TfL’s policy and safety standards.

Under the terms of the PHV licence, a qualified driver must be present and remain responsible for the car. Journeys could begin later this year.

A TfL spokesperson said safety was its “top priority” and any new vehicle licensed to carry passengers in London must align with its target of eliminating all deaths and serious injuries on London’s roads by 2041.

The vehicles being used – electric Ford Mustang Mach-Es – have been modified with camera pods on the roof and mirrors as well as small radar units.

The licensing of the vehicles completes the “triple-lock” requirement for private hire trips, where the operator, driver and vehicle must all hold licences with the same licensing authority.

For the vehicles to be used without a human driver, a separate approval would be needed from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.

Uber said some of the 100,000 people who signed up to express interest in experiencing robotaxis would be offered rides in the vehicles “later this summer”, ahead of a full public launch.