Uber, Lyft team up With Baidu to start robotaxi trials in UK

Uber, Lyft to start robotaxi trials in UK in H1 2026

Uber Technologies Inc. and Lyft Inc. are teaming up with Chinese Baidu Inc. to trial driverless taxis in the UK. Uber will start a pilot program using Baidu's Apollo Go RT6 robotaxis in London in the first half of 2026, with commercial services expected in the city before the end of next year.

Lyft Chief Executive David Risher said the company will begin testing in London with dozens of Apollo Go RT6 vehicles next year, stressing its desire to enhance Britain’s leadership in the field of future transportation, by providing safe and reliable options for the residents of the British capital, according to CNBC.

This move comes as part of Baidu's efforts to expand its global footprint, which currently includes 22 cities and more than 250,000 trips per week, in competition with other Chinese players such as WeRide, and American players such as Alphabet's Waymo.