Lyft, a ride-hailing company from the US, said Baidu’s autonomous vehicles will begin road tests in London in the coming weeks.

A commercial robotaxi launch is planned for this year if the vehicles pass inspections and secure approval from the UK authorities.

Under the partnership, Lyft will manage the fleet and bookings through its app, while Baidu, a technology company from China, will provide the vehicles and self-driving system.

Fares are expected to start at a level similar to current rides with human drivers, Lyft executive Jeremy Bird said.

The planned rollout would add to competition to launch robotaxis in the UK capital.

London-based self-driving startup Wayve is preparing a service with Uber as early as this summer, while Waymo plans to launch in London by the end of 2026.

🔗 Source: Agence France-Presse

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