Chinese technology company Baidu plans to introduce its Apollo Go robotaxi service in London from 2026 through tie-ups with ride-hailing platforms Uber and Lyft.
Under the arrangements, Baidu’s Apollo Go autonomous vehicles will be made available on both apps in the UK capital, subject to regulatory clearance.
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The RT6 vehicles earmarked for the service are all-electric and developed specifically for ride-hailing operations.
Lyft is expected to begin testing the first wave of several dozen Apollo Go cars in London in 2026, with an intention to expand the fleet into the hundreds at a later stage.
Lyft CEO David Risher said: “This is our vision for a hybrid network coming to life: AVs and human drivers working together to serve London’s diverse transportation needs now and beyond – from late-night trips home (post-Nandos, of course), to Heathrow rides, to early commutes across town, and everything in between.
“We’re committed to working closely with Transport for London, local authorities, and the communities we’ll serve to ensure these vehicles enhance London’s transportation ecosystem.”
Uber said it aims to start its initial pilot with Baidu in the first half of 2026.
In a statement on X, Uber said: “Testing is expected to start in the first half of 2026, under the UK’s frontier plan to begin trials for self-driving vehicles. We’re excited to accelerate Britain’s leadership in the future of mobility, bringing another safe and reliable travel option to Londoners next year.”
Baidu’s Apollo Go is currently said to be active in 22 cities globally and is handling more than 250,000 trips per week.
The London plans emerge as Alphabet’s autonomous driving business Waymo has also set out intentions to move into the city.
Waymo said it is preparing to launch fully driverless ride-hailing services in London from next year.
Baidu’s robotaxi arm has been exploring further international expansion, with reports indicating interest in markets including Australia and parts of Southeast Asia.
In the Middle East, Apollo Go has recently received 50 additional permits for autonomous driving trials from Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, enabling it to grow its local test fleet to around 100 vehicles.
