Uber and Pony.ai plan to begin testing autonomous vehicles in London in the coming weeks, extending their partnership into the UK and expanding their presence in the robotaxi market.
The tests are expected to use Pony.ai’s Gen-7 robotaxis. The companies have not disclosed who will own or operate the London fleet, although the arrangement is expected to follow a model similar to their existing service in Zagreb, Croatia.
London Testing to Use Pony.ai Technology
Under the anticipated operating model, Pony.ai would provide the autonomous-driving technology, while Uber would connect the service to its ride-hailing platform. Details of the London fleet, including ownership and operational responsibilities, have not yet been announced.
The planned tests would extend the companies’ collaboration into another European market as they work toward broader robotaxi deployment.
Partnership Expands Beyond the Middle East
Uber and Pony.ai began working together in May 2025, initially focusing on the Middle East. Their plans have since expanded to Europe, where they intend to deploy 2,000 robotaxis.
In August 2026, Uber, Pony.ai and Verne launched an autonomous ride-hailing service in Zagreb. Pony.ai supplied its autonomous-driving system and Arcfox Alpha T5 vehicles, while Verne owned and operated the fleet. Uber provided access to its ride-hailing network.
The Zagreb arrangement offers a potential model for the planned London operation, although the companies have not confirmed that the same structure will be used in the UK.
Uber Targets 15 Autonomous Vehicle Markets
Uber expects to offer autonomous-vehicle trips in as many as 15 cities worldwide by the end of 2026. Approximately half of these markets are expected to be in the United States, with the remainder in international markets.
The company has pursued partnerships with autonomous-driving developers and fleet operators rather than relying on a single technology provider or vehicle platform.
Wayve Also Plans a London Robotaxi Service
Uber has separately partnered with and invested in Wayve, a UK-based autonomous-driving company that is planning its own robotaxi service in London.
Wayve raised $1.2 billion in February 2026. The funding round could increase to $1.5 billion if Uber provides an additional $300 million linked to the start of Wayve’s robotaxi deployment in London.
The planned initiatives involving Pony.ai and Wayve would give Uber relationships with two autonomous-driving developers targeting the same city. Their respective testing and deployment plans remain subject to operational and regulatory requirements.
