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3d ago

Lyft and Baidu Set 2026 Launch for Apollo Go Robotaxis in Europe

This alliance integrates Baidu’s proven Apollo Go vehicles into Lyft’s FreeNow network to scale robotaxi services across the continent after regulators sign off.

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Lyft is partnering with Baidu to launch its Apollo Go robotaxis in parts of Europe.
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Baidu robotaxis. Photo: Shutterstock Images

Overview

  • Lyft and Baidu announced plans to launch Apollo Go robotaxis in the UK and Germany in 2026 pending local regulatory approval.
  • They aim to expand the autonomous fleet to thousands of vehicles across Europe in the years following the initial pilots.
  • The partnership builds on Lyft’s April acquisition of FreeNow, which grants access to nine European countries and established ties with regulators.
  • Baidu’s Apollo Go program currently operates over 1,000 autonomous vehicles in 15 cities and has completed more than 11 million public rides, underscoring its capacity to scale.
  • The rollout hinges on evolving European regulations, including the UK’s Automated Vehicles Act, as companies worldwide compete to broaden autonomous mobility offerings.