China’s Baidu and Lyft-owned Freenow unveiled the RT6 autonomous vehicle in London on October 22, targeting a commercial robotaxi launch in 2027. The companies began supervised road tests during summer 2026 and plan to introduce fully driverless rides after securing regulatory approval. The partnership expands Baidu’s European ambitions as competition for autonomous transport intensifies across the British capital.
The Apollo Go RT6 will navigate London’s urban roads while safety drivers monitor its performance during current trials. Freenow is working with Transport for London and expects further regulatory guidance soon.
The companies aim to assess local demand before expanding the service, potentially introducing dozens of vehicles over the next two years.
London Roads Put Autonomous Driving to the Test
London presents a demanding environment for robotaxi technology, with narrow streets, speed bumps and widespread 20 mph speed limits. Freenow UK General Manager Danny O’Gorman described the process as “learning the rules of the road,” similar to passing a driving test.
O’Gorman also said robotaxis would complement rather than replace the city’s traditional black cabs. The company plans to integrate autonomous vehicles alongside existing taxis and private hire cars. This approach could expand transport options without removing professional drivers from the network.
Robotaxi Competition Grows Across Britain
Baidu and Freenow face growing competition as other companies prepare autonomous ride services in London. Uber and British self-driving startup Wayve launched a robotaxi service in September with human safety drivers. Meanwhile, Google parent Alphabet’s Waymo aims to introduce fully driverless rides in the city by the end of 2026.
The European push also comes as US lawmakers consider a permanent ban on Chinese cars. Restrictions could encourage Chinese technology companies to pursue markets outside the United States.
For now, Baidu’s London robotaxi tests remain supervised rather than fully driverless. Regulatory approval and trial results will determine whether the companies meet their planned 2027 launch.
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