London, 10 June 2025 – The UK government has officially confirmed that driverless taxis and bus-style vehicles will begin operating in public trials from spring 2026, bringing forward the launch by a full year. The move is part of a wider strategy to position the UK at the forefront of autonomous vehicle (AV) innovation.
🚘 What’s Coming in 2026?
- Public self-driving services: Small-scale autonomous taxi and bus services will begin operating without safety drivers. Customers will be able to book via mobile apps.
- Fast-tracked pilot schemes: The commercial trials are part of a government-backed acceleration effort, previously planned for 2027, but now launching a year early.
- New legal framework: The Automated Vehicles Act, which recently received Royal Assent, will govern the use and oversight of AVs on UK roads.
🚀 Economic Growth & Safety
- £42 billion potential: Experts predict the self-driving vehicle sector could add £42 billion to the UK economy by 2035.
- 38,000 new jobs: From AI engineering to infrastructure support, the government expects a surge in employment across the AV sector.
- Fewer accidents: Since human error is responsible for around 88% of road accidents, AVs are expected to improve safety significantly over time.
🤖 Industry Leaders Involved
- Wayve & Uber: London-based AV firm Wayve has partnered with Uber to test self-driving taxis on UK roads, with trials expected to begin shortly, subject to approvals.
- UK tech ecosystem: British companies like Wayve and Oxa have attracted major investment and positioned the UK as a strong global contender in autonomous mobility.
📍 Why It Matters for DM News Readers
- Taxi & PHV industry impact: The arrival of self-driving taxis could disrupt the private hire trade. Drivers and operators will need to adapt as new technologies enter the market.
- Local job opportunities: From AV safety validation to operations support, the expansion of autonomous services may create new roles across UK cities and towns.
- Public transport access: Rural and underserved communities could benefit from improved access to transport thanks to these autonomous options.
Source: Gov.uk
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