Waymo plans to launch a robotaxi service in London in 2026

Waymo, the autonomous vehicle technology company, is planning to launch a robotaxi service in London by 2026. This announcement comes as Waymo expands its operations beyond the United States, where it has been testing and operating its self-driving technology. The company's move into the UK market is facilitated by its acquisition of Latent Logic, a British AI company, in 2019. This acquisition has provided Waymo with a local presence and expertise in the UK's regulatory environment and infrastructure. Waymo's robotaxi service in London will be a significant step in the company's global expansion strategy, as it seeks to bring its self-driving technology to more urban centers around the world. The company's experience in operating similar services in the US, such as its Waymo One service in Phoenix, Arizona, will likely inform the development and deployment of its London operations. This announcement highlights the growing importance of autonomous vehicle technology in the transportation sector and the increasing competition among companies to lead the way in this emerging market.