Uber has initiated a trial of autonomous vehicles on the streets of Manchester, marking a significant step towards introducing robotaxis across the UK. The first self-driving cars are now operational, utilizing technology from its partner firms Pony and Verne, which recently launched Europe’s first autonomous taxi service in Zagreb, Croatia.
Trial Launch
Uber expressed excitement about this development, stating it is a crucial step in making autonomous technology accessible to people throughout the UK. In social media updates, Verne announced the commencement of autonomous vehicle testing in Manchester, while Pony indicated plans to expand robotaxi services in the city.
The current tests involve mapping the streets of Manchester with a safety driver present in the vehicle, but without any passengers. Limited passenger services had previously begun in London, where a safety driver is also required in cars provided by Wayve, adhering to Transport for London’s licensing regulations for private hire vehicles.
