Local Councils Could Give Green Light for Driverless Taxi Trials from Next Spring

The UK government is exploring new plans that would allow local councils and city mayors to approve pilot schemes for autonomous taxi services as early as next spring.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has opened a consultation on how such trials could be rolled out at a local level.

This initiative lays the groundwork for a wider deployment of driverless vehicles—including taxis, private hire cars, and on-demand shuttle-style services—scheduled to begin in 2027, under new regulations established by the Automated Vehicles Act.

The consultation is also addressing key concerns such as ensuring autonomous transport is accessible for older adults and individuals with disabilities. Other topics include the circumstances under which operating permits for self-driving vehicles could be changed, suspended, or revoked.

Officials are also seeking input on how local authorities would handle the approval process and what safety requirements should be in place for these vehicles to operate on public roads.

Minister for the future of roads Lilian Greenwood said:“Self-driving vehicles are one of the most exciting opportunities to improve transport for so many people, especially those in rural areas or unable to drive.“We want to work with passengers and industry to make this new form of transport safe and accessible, as we take our next steps towards adoption.”