Baidu Inc. announced that its Apollo Go autonomous‑vehicle platform will begin a pilot in London in the first half of 2026, partnering with ride‑hailing giants Uber and Lyft. The trial marks a key expansion of Baidu’s robotaxi operations into a major European capital, following earlier tests in Switzerland and planned deployments in Germany.
The partnership allows Uber and Lyft to offer driverless rides through their platforms while Baidu gains access to the UK’s evolving regulatory framework, which is set to allow small‑scale robotaxi pilots from spring 2026. The UK’s Automated Vehicles Act 2024 and Transport for London’s Vision Zero strategy create a supportive environment for autonomous technology, positioning London as a battleground for companies such as Waymo and local startup Wayve.
Baidu’s Apollo Go has already operated in 22 cities worldwide, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Switzerland, and handles thousands of trips weekly. The London pilot will deploy the RT6 model—purpose‑built, all‑electric vehicles featuring reclining seats, panoramic roofs, and mood lighting—at a production cost of roughly $37,000 per unit.
Market reaction to the announcement was positive: shares of Uber, Lyft, and Baidu rose on the day of the announcement, reflecting investor confidence in the strategic partnership and the potential for early revenue generation in a high‑profile market. Analysts noted that the collaboration reduces the need for Uber and Lyft to develop in‑house autonomous technology, potentially accelerating market entry and lowering capital expenditures.
Management comments underscored the strategic intent. Lyft CEO David Risher said the trial “brings a hybrid network of autonomous and human‑driven vehicles to London, enhancing mobility for commuters, late‑night travelers, and airport shuttles.” Baidu’s executive team highlighted the partnership as a “critical step in scaling our AI‑driven mobility platform globally” and emphasized the company’s focus on safety and regulatory compliance.
The collaboration also carries geopolitical significance. Amid strained U.S.–China relations, the joint venture demonstrates a pragmatic approach to innovation, allowing U.S. ride‑hailing platforms to tap into Chinese autonomous‑vehicle expertise while expanding their own service offerings.
In summary, the London pilot represents a milestone for Baidu’s global footprint, a strategic advantage for Uber and Lyft’s autonomous ambitions, and a testbed for the UK’s regulatory framework, all of which carry material implications for the autonomous‑vehicle industry.
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