GoKawiilUber begins autonomous vehicle testing in Manchester with Pony, Verne
Uber has started mapping Manchester streets using self-driving technology from partners Pony and Verne, with a safety driver present but no passengers onboard. The companies previously launched Europe's first autonomous taxi service in Zagreb, and Uber already runs limited passenger robotaxi trials in London using Wayve vehicles under TfL licensing rules.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The Manchester tests suggest Uber is laying groundwork to expand robotaxi services beyond London, though no passenger service application has been filed yet. Mounting opposition from drivers' unions and a critical London assembly report questioning safety, job losses, and accessibility indicates the UK rollout of autonomous taxis could face significant regulatory and political hurdles.
- Uber is testing autonomous vehicles in Manchester using Pony and Verne technology, with safety drivers but no passengers yet.
- The move follows Uber's Zagreb launch and ongoing limited passenger trials in London with Wayve vehicles.
- Unions and London politicians are raising concerns over job losses, safety, and accessibility as robotaxi expansion continues.
Source: news.slashdot.org, 2026-10-15
Published there as: “Uber Begins Self-Driving Robotaxi Trial In Manchester”
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