Waymo, the American robotaxi operator, has begun testing its driverless vehicles on London's streets, marking the first European city for the company. The tests, which took place in early December, included a self-driving Jaguar I-Pace crossing the famous Abbey Road zebra crossing, as shared on social media. Waymo hopes to gain permission from Transport for London to start autonomous rides in 2026, with Uber also eyeing a similar service in the UK.
A reporter who has taken multiple Waymo journeys in San Francisco and Los Angeles shared insights on what to expect. In San Francisco, a fleet of around 1,000 modified Jaguar I-Pace cars operates via an app, where users can order a ride and see their initials on the car's rooftop antenna. The app unlocks the vehicle and boot, while inside, tranquil music plays to ease nervous passengers.
The experience is described as surreal but quickly becomes familiar, with passengers sitting behind the driver's seat none the wiser that no human is driving. All journeys are videoed, and a support team is available at any point, but only then can conversations be heard by the team. Passengers must be over 18, wear seatbelts, and are banned from smoking, vaping, drugs, or alcohol consumption during rides.
Waymo fares are reportedly cheaper than Uber, possibly due to introductory pricing or the lack of driver wages. However, concerns remain about the condition of vehicles after late-night use, given the immaculate interiors of US counterparts. The UK launch is anticipated with both excitement and caution as driverless taxis become a reality on London roads.
