Waymo and Baidu prepare 2026 London robotaxi launches as US-China AV rivalry intensifies

By 2026, Waymo and Baidu plan to launch competing robotaxi services in London, setting up the first direct clash between US and Chinese driverless fleets in one city. Waymo has already begun testing modified Jaguar vehicles in London, while Baidu aims to deploy its RT6 cars after partnering with Uber and Lyft, as both companies navigate the UK’s new framework for commercial autonomous driving trials and mounting scrutiny over safety and data security.