Lyft and Baidu Launch Apollo Go Robotaxi Trials in London Borough of Brent
The partnership aims to open a hybrid human-robot network to the public by 2027 pending regulatory approval.
Baidu has commenced testing its sixth-generation Apollo Go RT6 autonomous vehicles in London through a strategic partnership with Lyft, marking Chinese AV technology's entry into the European market. The testing uses Baidu's purpose-built Apollo Go RT6 robotaxis, designed for autonomous ride-hailing without traditional driver controls.
Dozens of vehicles are currently operating with human safety operators in the borough of Brent, a dense urban area selected for the initial phase. The companies plan to open the service to the public in 2027, subject to regulatory approval from UK authorities.
Lyft is leveraging Freenow, a German multi-mobility app it acquired from BMW and Mercedes-Benz Mobility in April 2025 for approximately $197 million (€175 million). This acquisition provided the US ride-hailing firm with a crucial foothold in Europe, allowing it to bypass the challenges of building a local network from scratch.
The service will operate as a hybrid network where human drivers and robotaxis work alongside each other, integrating autonomous units into existing ride-hailing infrastructure. Thomas Zimmermann, CEO of Freenow by Lyft, emphasized the human element: "As a platform with deep roots in the taxi industry, our priority is ensuring that autonomous technology supports the professional drivers who keep London moving."
London is rapidly becoming a primary hub for autonomous vehicle competition in Europe. Waymo began testing in the city in April 2026, advancing toward its first major international rollout. Meanwhile, Uber is pursuing a separate path, partnering with British AI startup Wayve for robotaxi trials expected later in 2026, distinct from the Lyft-Baidu collaboration.
The rollout is tied to the UK government's evolving autonomous vehicle regulations and the AV pilot program managed by the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CCAV) and Transport for London (TfL). Successful navigation of London's historic streets is viewed as a key benchmark for AV readiness globally.