The UK's first robotaxis hit the roads in London, as Uber launches its self-driving minicabs. With just 15 autonomous vehicles, the service is still in its early stages, each needing a human safety driver for backup.
Costs are currently on par with standard UberX, Uber Electric, or Uber Comfort journeys, with upfront fares clearly displayed in the app. BBC journalist Zoe Kleinman was the first to try the ride, offering a firsthand account.
While the technology shows promise, safety remains a key concern. The initial phase is focused on ensuring the system works reliably, with human intervention as a fail-safe.
The rollout of self-driving taxis in London could mark the start of a significant shift in urban transport. However, it's a long way to a fully autonomous future — for now, the cab is still in the driver's seat.
