London Assembly calls for stricter rules and caps on driverless taxi fleets

The London Assembly Transport Committee has released a report titled ‘Who’s Driving the Future of Autonomous Transport in London?’, calling for stricter regulations and potential caps on driverless taxi fleets. The committee recommended that Transport for London (TfL) be granted powers to limit the number of autonomous passenger vehicles, withdraw operating permits, and enforce rigorous safety requirements.

The report expresses skepticism regarding the current evidence supporting the immediate introduction of autonomous passenger services in the capital. Key concerns raised include road safety on London’s complex streets, increased traffic congestion, accessibility for disabled passengers, data protection, and the potential economic impact on professional drivers.

A survey cited in the report indicates public hesitation, with 42% of Londoners opposing autonomous passenger vehicles compared to 29% in support. While the recommendations do not mandate an immediate ban, they aim to shape the regulatory framework as the UK develops standards for self-driving vehicles leading toward 2027. Currently, major prospective operators such as Wayve, Waymo, and Freenow have not yet submitted formal applications to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).