Uber Begins Self-Driving Robotaxi Trial In Manchester
An anonymous reader quotes a report from The Guardian: Uber has begun a trial of autonomous vehicles on the streets of Manchester as it looks to bring robotaxis to cities around the UK. The first self-driving cars are operating, using the technology of its partner firms Pony and Verne, with whom Uber recently launched Europe's first autonomous taxi service in the Croatian capital, Zagreb. Uber…
Uber has initiated a trial of autonomous vehicles in Manchester, aiming to introduce robotaxis in cities across the UK. The trial involves using technology from partners Pony and Verne, with whom Uber launched Europe's first autonomous taxi service in Zagreb. Uber expressed excitement about making this technology available to people throughout the UK.
Verne and Pony confirmed they began testing autonomous vehicles in Manchester, with mapping of the city's streets underway while a safety driver remains in the driver's seat and no passengers are present. Limited passenger services commenced in London last month, with a safety driver in the front seat of cars from Wayve, under Transport for London's licensing rules for private hire vehicles.
Further steps remain uncertain, as opposition to the rollout of robotaxis in Manchester is growing. Unions representing Uber drivers, GMB and ADCU, have warned of job losses and called for support for affected workers. A recent report from London's transport committee called for the government to delegate authority over autonomous taxi services, citing concerns over the benefits, impacts on public transport, congestion, safeguarding, and accessibility for disabled passengers. No official application for passenger services in Manchester has been made yet.
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