The Transport Committee met on Tuesday 14 July 2026 to discuss the implications of autonomous passenger vehicles (APVs) for London. The committee heard from Transport for London (TfL) representatives Christina Calderato, Director of Strategy, and Danny Price, Director of Sponsored Services and Regulatory Compliance, about TfL's role in the consenting process for APVs, their potential impact on the Mayor's Transport Strategy, and safeguarding concerns. The committee also discussed the economic implications of APVs and the potential impact on existing transport jobs.

Autonomous Passenger Vehicles in London

Transport for London (TfL) is preparing to act as a consenting authority for autonomous passenger vehicles (APVs) in London, a role that involves a six-week window to review applications submitted to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). TfL aims to shape the rollout of APVs from the outset to ensure they complement, rather than compete with, the existing public transport network and contribute to the Mayor's Transport Strategy objectives, such as Vision Zero and reducing congestion.

TfL officials, Christina Calderato and Danny Price, explained that while the DVSA handles the permit applications, TfL's consent is crucial. They are developing guidance to clarify expectations for operators, emphasizing the need for pre-engagement. TfL's current powers are limited to a stop-go decision at the consent stage, with no ongoing role once vehicles are on the street. They are actively lobbying for greater powers, including the ability to suspend operations if safety concerns arise, and for full licensing powers to be devolved to TfL in the long term.

Concerns were raised about APVs potentially undermining the Mayor's Transport Strategy goal of 80% of journeys being made by public transport, walking, or cycling by 2041. While APVs could potentially fill gaps in public transport provision, particularly in outer London, there is a significant risk that they could increase congestion if not managed effectively, making public transport less attractive and potentially leading to a decline in its use.

TfL is also focused on ensuring APVs contribute to Vision Zero, London's strategy to eliminate road deaths and serious injuries. While current government regulations require APVs to be at least as safe as a careful and competent human driver, TfL believes this standard is insufficient and advocates for a Vision Zero standard, meaning a reduction in the frequency and severity of collisions. TfL currently lacks access to data from APV trials, which are not mandated to be shared, making it difficult to assess their impact on Vision Zero targets.

The committee discussed the potential impact of APVs on the taxi and private hire industry. While acknowledging the unique role of black cabs, particularly in providing wheelchair-accessible transport, TfL stated they are exploring initiatives to encourage more people to become taxi drivers, such as providing free access to Santander Cycles to support those undertaking The Knowledge .¹ However, there is a concern that APVs could lead to job displacement for private hire drivers due to their lack of direct employment status and the potential for technological change. TfL is advocating for a phased deployment of APVs to manage workforce transition and is committed to supporting the taxi and private hire industry through its existing action plan.

Regarding accessibility, TfL is developing stringent requirements for APV operators, including provisions for disabled passengers, older and neurodivergent users, wheelchair users, and assistance dogs. They are also emphasizing a whole journey approach, ensuring accessible booking channels, staff support centres, and accessible information. TfL is encouraging the development of more wheelchair-accessible vehicles, though they acknowledge the unique offering of the current black cab fleet.

Passenger safeguarding is another key area of focus. TfL expects operators to demonstrate robust measures for passenger safety, including support, safeguarding, and reassurance before, during, and after a trip. This includes immediate voice contact with UK-based, DBS-checked staff support centres, and protocols for managing incidents such as harassment or criminal activity, potentially through CCTV and links with emergency services. TfL is considering proposals such as a minimum age of 18 for unaccompanied travel during the pilot phase and restricting ride-pooling between unrelated bookings.

The committee also explored the economic implications of APVs. While government figures suggest significant economic benefits and job creation, experts expressed skepticism about these projections, particularly regarding the current Robotaxi model. The true economic benefit, they argued, would stem from APVs enabling greater connectivity, especially in outer London, and potentially creating new types of jobs that are currently unpredictable. There is a concern that the current economic benefits are likely to accrue to US and Chinese tech companies rather than the UK.

The discussion also touched upon data management and cyber security. Experts highlighted the data-rich nature of APVs, which act as CCTVs on wheels, raising questions about data access for emergency services and the potential for misuse of personal data. The need for standardized data sharing mechanisms, including ethical black boxes and replay viewers, was emphasized to ensure transparency and enable learning from incidents. TfL is committed to requiring data sharing as a core component of their consent process.

Finally, the committee discussed the potential for cyberattacks on APVs and the need for robust security measures. While acknowledging the potential for cyber risks, experts suggested that the primary focus should remain on ensuring the vehicles operate safely and reliably, with a strong emphasis on human oversight and regulatory frameworks.