Baidu set to launch self driving taxis in UK and Germany as US bans Chinese tech in vehicles

Baidu, often referred to as ‘China’s Google,’ has announced plans to trial its self-driving Apollo Go taxis on UK and German roads in 2026. This expansion, in partnership with ride-hailing giant Lyft, marks a significant moment in the ongoing competition between Chinese and Western technology firms, particularly as concerns mount over the security implications of foreign-made autonomous vehicles.

The move comes just as the United States prepares to prohibit the use of Chinese autonomous driving software and connected car technology from 2027. Citing national security concerns, US officials have sprung into action in response to the potential risks posed by extensive data collection, internet-connected systems, and microchips integrated into modern vehicles. The US Department of Commerce has highlighted the opportunities for unauthorised data exfiltration and attempts at vehicle manipulation, underscoring the view that China’s presence in critical automotive supply chains constitutes a substantial risk.

Baidu currently operates autonomous ride-hailing services in major Chinese cities such as Beijing and Wuhan, and now looks to scale its European ambitions. The company has already engaged in developmental testing in the US before the recent regulatory shift and aims to deploy thousands of driverless vehicles across Europe in coming years. Executives from Baidu position this launch as a commitment to drive forward the accessibility and adoption of autonomous mobility worldwide.

Lyft’s recent acquisition of Freenow, a prominent ride-hailing platform previously owned by BMW and Mercedes-Benz, serves as the foundation for this collaboration. Integration with Baidu will see self-driving cars deployed through Lyft’s app across Europe, with a rollout expected as early as next year. Lyft’s chief executive, David Risher, argued that Baidu’s experience operating the world’s largest autonomous ride-hailing fleet translates to potential gains in safety, reliability, and privacy for European consumers.

The UK has not been immune to cyber security controversies surrounding Chinese technology. British intelligence services and MPs have previously raised concerns about cyber espionage, and a notable case in 2023 saw allegations of a tracking device hidden within a ministerial vehicle. The government previously moved to exclude Huawei from the country’s 5G networks on similar security grounds.

Competing efforts to introduce driverless taxis to UK roads have also gained traction. Uber is set to partner with British firm Wayve while Tesla is conducting London trials, as both industry incumbents and disruptors seek to secure an early foothold in a fast-evolving sector. The ultimate outcome for Baidu’s European ambitions may well hinge on the ongoing debate between innovation and security on the global stage.