Self-driving cars are being tested on Manchester’s roads, marking a significant step towards the potential introduction of autonomous taxis in Greater Manchester.
Uber has partnered with technology companies Verne and Pony.ai to trial the vehicles, which are currently mapping local streets with a safety driver behind the wheel and no passengers on board.
While the trials could pave the way for a new transport option in the city, a public-facing driverless taxi service is not yet available, and no application has been made to operate autonomous taxis in Greater Manchester. Transport for Greater Manchester has emphasised that safety must remain the priority as the technology develops, with questions around regulation, congestion and the potential impact on the existing taxi industry still to be considered.
Read the full story to find out what Uber’s plans could mean for Manchester’s future transport network in the Manchester Evening News.
