Britons reject self-driving cars as Londoners oppose robotaxis in 'concerning' move for Labour

Britons have started backing away from the idea of self-driving taxis in the capital, with a new poll showing public opposition to driverless cars remains high.

According to a YouGov survey, 42 per cent of people in London opposed autonomous taxis, while just 29 per cent support them.

The findings come as companies including Uber, Lyft and British self-driving technology firm Wayve push to launch robotaxi services in London before the end of 2026.

Despite those plans, only three in 10 Londoners said they would consider using a driverless taxi if one became available.

TRENDING

Stories

Videos

Your Say

The poll, carried out by the London Assembly Transport Committee, also found widespread concerns over safety, technology failures and the way firms collect personal data.

Almost half of those surveyed said they were worried about how autonomous vehicles would react in unexpected situations, such as emergencies.

Road safety was another major concern, with 41 per cent worried about the risks self-driving cars could pose to other road users.

Meanwhile, 39 per cent feared technical faults or system failures could cause problems on the road.

Public trust in the companies behind the technology was also low, with just 17 per cent of respondents stating they trusted robotaxi operators to collect and use their personal information responsibly.

Although self-driving taxi services are not yet operating anywhere in the UK, several firms are hoping to begin trials in the near future.

The findings have prompted fresh calls for transport officials to take public concerns seriously before approving the technology.

Caroline Russell AM, Chair of the London Assembly Transport Committee, said: "Hearing how Londoners feel about autonomous passenger vehicles is an important part of the Transport Committee investigation into their trial and possible rollout in London.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

• China breaks records with 1m monthly car exports as UK drivers embrace BYD, Jaecoo and more
• DVSA launches crackdown on drivers breaking laws as motorists risk having vehicles seized
• M42 motorway bridge closes after drivers repeatedly ignored weight limit despite safety fears

"The strength of opposition is concerning, and we believe the Department for Transport and Transport for London should sit up and take our survey results seriously when considering the next steps for this technology."

She said the results showed there was still significant work to do before driverless taxis could win public confidence.

Ms Russell added: "The scepticism of Londoners means concerns need to be addressed and we will be making some strong recommendations when the Transport Committee report is published after summer."

The Transport Committee is investigating how autonomous passenger vehicles could be introduced across London and is expected to publish recommendations later this year.

Its report will examine how any future rollout could affect passengers, road safety and London's wider transport network.

The poll also suggested many Londoners remain unconvinced that self-driving taxis are ready for public use, particularly in the capital.

Roads and Buses Minister, Simon Lightwood, previously shared: "Self-driving vehicles represent a transformative opportunity for Britain, opening up independent travel for disabled people and older adults, while driving growth and creating high-skilled jobs across the UK."

Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter