London not ready for driverless taxis, Assembly report warns
A London Assembly report urges transport officials to hold off on introducing driverless taxis until stronger safety measures are in place.
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Plans for driverless taxis in London face a significant hurdle following a London Assembly report that concludes the capital is unprepared for the technology. The Assembly's Transport Committee has advised Transport for London (TfL) to withhold approval for a widespread introduction of these vehicles, often referred to as 'robotaxis', until more robust safety protocols are established.
The report highlights several critical concerns, including the safety of passengers during emergencies such as assault or illness, the potential for increased traffic congestion, and the environmental impact of additional pollution. Officials remain unconvinced by the safety claims made by operators like Waymo, Wayve, and Baidu, particularly when applied to the complex conditions of London's roads. The committee noted a lack of convincing proposals for safeguarding passengers in vulnerable situations.
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Regulatory Powers and Public Opinion
A key issue raised by the committee pertains to TfL's existing powers. The report questions the transport authority's capacity to effectively limit the number of driverless vehicles operating on London's streets or to revoke an operator's licence should significant problems arise. Caroline Russell AM, Chair of the Transport Committee, expressed that driverless cars could exacerbate existing transport issues by delaying buses, contributing to pollution near schools, or obstructing busy junctions. She urged TfL to prioritise the public purpose of streets for safe and efficient travel for all Londoners.
Public sentiment towards driverless vehicles in London also appears divided. A YouGov survey cited in the report found that 42 per cent of Londoners oppose their introduction, while only 29 per cent support it. Major concerns among the public include how these vehicles will respond to emergencies, the overall risk to road safety, and the consequences of technological failures.
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Recommendations and Next Steps
The London Assembly's Transport Committee has put forward 13 recommendations for the potential rollout of driverless vehicles. These include granting TfL enhanced control over permits for such vehicles, implementing more stringent safety standards, and closely monitoring the impact on congestion and public transport services. The committee also called for stronger passenger protections, improved accessibility for disabled individuals, clear emergency procedures, and support for transport workers whose jobs may be at risk.
As of late 2026, no operator has successfully completed the national safety assessment required by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) for vehicles operating without a human safety driver. While commercial services were initially planned for spring 2026, regulatory delays and the findings of this report suggest a wider rollout across the UK is now more likely in 2027. TfL officials have stated they are not rushing the approval process, with safety remaining their primary consideration.
Questions this report answers
+What is the main recommendation of the London Assembly report regarding driverless taxis?
The report urges transport officials to hold off on introducing driverless taxis until stronger safety measures are in place. It states that, as it stands, there is insufficient evidence to persuade the committee that London should welcome autonomous passenger services.
+What are the primary concerns raised about driverless taxis in London?
The report raises concerns about passenger safety, particularly in emergencies, and the potential for increased traffic congestion and pollution. It also questions TfL's powers to limit the number of driverless vehicles or revoke operator licences.
+What do Londoners think about introducing driverless vehicles?
A YouGov survey mentioned in the report found that 42 per cent of Londoners opposed the introduction of driverless vehicles, while 29 per cent supported it. Key concerns included emergency response and road safety.
+When might driverless taxis be introduced in London?
While initial plans aimed for spring 2026, regulatory delays and the concerns highlighted in the report suggest a wider rollout is now more likely in 2027. TfL has stated that safety remains their priority and they are not rushing the approval process.
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