Tesla has been spotted testing its self-driving tech on the streets of London, and it's got people wondering if Robotaxis are about to hit the UK.
A new video posted on X (formerly Twitter) shows a Tesla Model 3 cruising around London almost completely hands-free. The car is running Tesla’s latest ‘Full Self-Driving (Supervised)’ software, which is officially classed as Level 2 autonomy. That means someone still has to sit behind the wheel just in case.
Interestingly, these test cars are the same in terms of hardware as the ones you can buy today. The magic happens through a software update, which even lets the car navigate places like unmapped car parks using AI. It works a lot like the ‘Summon’ feature currently available in the US.
The video also shows the Model 3 handling Swindon’s chaotic Magic Roundabout without any help from the driver. Tesla says the software is ready, but current UK laws only allow testing for now. That could change as early as next year when self-driving taxi trials are expected to begin.
So, could Robotaxis actually become a thing here soon? Possibly. Tesla has already launched a limited rollout in Texas using modified Model Ys with a safety driver on board. Eventually, these will be replaced by the fully autonomous ‘Cybercab’, which made an appearance in London last year.
Tesla expects its Full Self-Driving (Supervised) tech to launch in Europe later this year. So while you won’t be hailing a self-driving taxi just yet, Tesla owners in the UK might soon get to try the software for themselves.
Meanwhile, Uber has announced plans to launch its own self-driving service in London in spring 2026. The UK Government has also launched a public consultation to get feedback on the future of autonomous vehicles.
Lilian Greenwood, the Minister for the Future of Roads, called self-driving cars “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.”
