Baidu to launch self-driving taxis in London next year

Chinese technology company Baidu is partnering with Uber to bring autonomous taxis to the U.K. According to Pandaily, Baidu’s self-driving platform Radish Run is preparing to launch operations in London as early as 2026. The move would mark the service’s first deployment in left-hand traffic conditions outside of Hong Kong.

Uber and Radish Run partnership

The two companies plan to introduce a full-scale robotaxi service, with autonomous vehicles accessible through a global mobile app. The rollout will begin with testing, followed by a gradual expansion of autonomous driving operations on London streets. For Uber, the partnership represents another step toward expanding its self-driving vehicle offerings, while for Baidu, it marks a key milestone in the company’s international growth strategy.

Testing and expanding the self-driving fleet

Baidu intends to deploy its Apollo Go RT6, a sixth-generation, purpose-built, fully electric robotaxi designed for Level 4 autonomous driving and equipped with a detachable steering wheel.

While Uber has confirmed its participation, rival ride-hailing company Lyft is taking a more cautious approach. According to CEO David Risher, Lyft plans to begin testing several dozen autonomous vehicles in 2026 and expand the fleet to hundreds only after securing all required regulatory approvals.

The future of autonomous transport in London

Although entering the U.K. market requires adapting systems for right-hand-drive vehicles and local traffic conditions, Baidu’s experience operating in Hong Kong has helped build confidence in the technology’s safety. If approved by regulators, London could become one of the world’s largest hubs for self-driving taxi services operated by Baidu and Uber.