Self-driving cabs set to hit UK roads
Britain’s first fleet of robot taxis and driverless buses could be on the road by next spring – and ministers want you to help decide how they should work.
The Government (21 July) launched a new public consultation asking Brits to weigh in on key laws that will regulate self-driving passenger services – from who gives them the green light to how they stay safe.
From 2026, people could be hopping into app-booked taxis, mini-buses and private hire vehicles without a human driver at the wheel, thanks to new fast-tracked pilot schemes being rolled out across the country.
And with £42 billion of industry growth and 38,000 new jobs on the line, ministers say the move could transform British transport – especially in areas like the West Midlands.
Robot rides for rural routes
Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood said the technology could be a “gamechanger” for rural areas and people who can’t drive, including older residents and those with disabilities.
“Self-driving vehicles are one of the most exciting opportunities to improve transport for so many people,” she said. “This tech doesn’t just have the potential to improve travel – it’ll help drive jobs, investment and innovation across the country.”
With thousands across Shropshire, Warwickshire and Staffordshire often left behind by patchy public transport, ministers say these futuristic rides could offer 24/7 services where buses no longer run – all without needing a driver.
Safer, smarter, no backseat driving
Officials are stressing that safety will be key, with all vehicles expected to meet the same standards as “competent and careful human drivers” before hitting the road.
And with human error blamed for 88% of road collisions, the hope is that smart vehicles could cut accidents while making travel more accessible.
The consultation, open until 28 September, will look at questions like:
- How driverless services will be approved and monitored
- What happens if a vehicle or service needs to be suspended
- How to make vehicles fully accessible for disabled passengers
Billion-pound British boom
The UK’s self-driving sector is already booming. Tech firm Wayve recently secured over $1 billion in investment and has teamed up with giants like Nissan and Uber. Meanwhile, Oxford-based Oxa is already running automated baggage vehicles at Heathrow and bus-style trials in the US.
Gavin Jackson, CEO of Oxa, welcomed the Government’s move: “This is the next step to bring autonomous public transport to life. These services will make travel more accessible than ever.”
West midlands ready to roll
The West Midlands has long been a testbed for cutting-edge transport, with previous trials of autonomous pods in Coventry and driverless shuttles at Birmingham Airport.
Local leaders say the region is well-placed to lead the way, with strong engineering talent and links to big-name automakers and AI firms.
As part of the rollout, councils will play a key role in approving services. That means West Midlands residents will have a say in shaping how – and where – these robo-rides operate.
How to have your say
Whether you’re excited, sceptical, or just curious, the Department for Transport wants to hear from you.
You can respond to the consultation until 28 September 2025 via the Government website and share your thoughts on what self-driving services should look like.
By 2027, the Automated Vehicles Act will kick in fully – meaning these services could go national. Until then, all eyes are on the 2026 trials.
No steering wheel. No driver. Just hop in, sit back, and let the car do the work.
Got thoughts on driverless taxis? Email us at newsdesk@westmidlands.news and share your views.
