UK Set to Launch Self-Driving Taxi and Bus Trials on Public Roads in 2026

The UK government has announced plans to fast-track commercial trials of autonomous vehicles on public roads, with services expected to be available to everyday users as early as spring 2026. So, what does that mean for people like you?

A self-driving car, also known as an autonomous vehicle, is a car that can navigate, steer, brake, and accelerate without a human behind the wheel. These vehicles rely on a combination of sensors, cameras, and advanced software that allows them to understand their surroundings, make decisions, and act accordingly.

While this may sound futuristic, the UK has already been testing this technology for nearly a decade. Since January 2015, companies like Wayve and Oxa have been experimenting with autonomous driving, pushing the boundaries of what these vehicles can do.

But now, we’re entering a new phase. Starting in 2026, some of these cars might hit the roads with no safety driver on board. You’ll be able to book one using an app, just like you would a regular taxi.

Britain is not just participating in the global push for autonomous mobility. It is helping lead it. Wayve recently raised one billion dollars in funding, backed by major players such as SoftBank, Nvidia, and Microsoft. The company is also partnering with industry giants like Nissan and Uber to bring its technology to the mainstream.

Meanwhile, Oxa is already operating self-driving vehicles at Heathrow Airport. These cars are being used to streamline baggage transport and reduce delays.

From 2026 onward, small-scale autonomous taxis and shuttle services are expected to begin operating in select towns and cities. These won’t have backup drivers sitting in the front seat. They’ll be fully driverless. Booking one will feel just like hailing a ride through Uber or Bolt today.

This shift could be a game-changer for people in rural areas or communities with limited public transport. Imagine living in a village where buses only run twice a day. Suddenly, getting to the doctor’s office or visiting family could be as easy as opening an app.

The government insists that safety is its top priority. According to Transport Minister Alexander, road safety remains at the core of both pilot programmes and upcoming legislation.

Currently, human error causes nearly nine out of every ten road collisions. Autonomous vehicles have the potential to reduce that number significantly. These systems can react faster than humans. They don’t get tired, distracted, emotional, or intoxicated. They obey the rules—every time.

Need evidence? Just look at Waymo, the self-driving division of Google. In a study covering more than 56 million miles of autonomous driving, the company found that its vehicles were involved in significantly fewer serious accidents compared to human drivers. Most notably, Waymo’s system resulted in 92 per cent fewer crashes involving pedestrians and 82 per cent fewer crashes involving cyclists and motorcyclists.

Under the new Automated Vehicles Act, every self-driving car will need to meet or exceed the safety standards of a skilled human driver. Before they are approved for public use, each vehicle undergoes a series of rigorous safety evaluations.

The rise of autonomous driving could do more than change how we get around. It could reshape the economy. By 2035, experts estimate that the self-driving sector could add over 40 billion pounds to the UK economy and create around 38,000 new jobs.

These roles won’t just be for engineers. There will be opportunities in manufacturing, maintenance, customer support, software development, urban planning, and even insurance. Entire ecosystems will emerge to support this transformation.

For many people, driving isn’t an option. Those with disabilities, older adults, or individuals living in transport deserts often struggle with mobility. Self-driving cars could open new doors for them, offering a level of freedom and independence that was previously unattainable.

Since many of these vehicles will be electric, they will also contribute to lower emissions and reduced traffic congestion, especially if ride-sharing becomes more popular.

Despite the buzz, many Brits remain unsure about letting go of the wheel. A recent Deloitte study found that over one in four UK drivers remain sceptical about the benefits of artificial intelligence in vehicles. That level of doubt is similar to what we’re seeing in the US and Germany, and it stands in sharp contrast to the high enthusiasm in places like India and China.

To tackle this, the UK government is taking a multi-pronged approach. That means clear legal frameworks, ongoing public education campaigns, and continued investment in the technology itself. It’s a careful balancing act between innovation and trust.

The real tipping point will come when the Automated Vehicles Act takes full effect, likely by late 2027. Until then, pilot projects will continue to roll out in selected areas. These trials will be closely monitored for safety, reliability, and public reception.

So far, voices across the industry have been largely supportive. Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, believes the UK is on the brink of a transportation revolution. TechUK’s Julian David called the progress exciting while also warning that the UK must stay globally competitive.

Safety advocates like Steve Cole from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and Arun Srinivasan from RoadSafe have also welcomed the government’s careful approach. Also, leaders in accessibility, such as Matt Stringer of the Royal National Institute of Blind People and Andrew Miller of Motability Operations, are urging developers to prioritise the needs of all users, including those who are disabled or visually impaired.