Waymo is set to launch its autonomous vehicle service in Europe for the first time, deploying vehicles in London that will initially require human safety drivers due to ongoing regulatory hurdles.
The deployment is expected in the coming weeks. This plan marks a significant expansion for the Alphabet Inc. subsidiary, which is well-known for its autonomous transport fleet equipped with sensors and cameras.
Initially, these vehicles will not operate fully autonomously. A human “pilot” will be present to supervise all operations.
The company’s long-term goal is to remove these drivers entirely, achieving 100% autonomous service. This ambition first requires resolving bureaucratic procedures with the United Kingdom government and its regulators.
Details of Waymo’s European arrival were revealed in a recent company blog post. Only London was mentioned as an initial location. There are no immediate plans for tests elsewhere.
The choice of London may be a strategic decision. It could help Waymo avoid navigating the potentially complex regulatory landscape of the wider European Union.
Waymo currently operates autonomous taxi services in several U.S. cities. These include San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Austin.
Further expansion across Europe is anticipated but faces significant obstacles. Many potential locations would require new or adapted legislation. There would also need to be a direct opening from the European Union regarding autonomous vehicle regulations.
Steps toward such legislative changes appear to be underway. However, a full regulatory framework is still far from complete.
Waymo must anticipate and adapt to these evolving demands. While its taxis need no human interaction to operate, the absence of a driver to respond in emergencies is a key concern for regulators.
The U.S. market offers a parallel example. Despite being largely favorable to emerging technologies, it imposes restrictions on Waymo. Only some states have given approval. Just five U.S. cities currently have active autonomous taxi services. This highlights the ongoing need for legislators worldwide to adapt to this technology.