Lyft and Baidu set to launch autonomous ride-hailing in Europe

Lyft and Baidu have announced a strategic partnership to deploy autonomous vehicles across key European markets, marking a significant expansion for both companies into the continent’s fast-evolving mobility sector.

Under the agreement, Lyft will introduce Baidu’s Apollo Go robotaxis in Germany and the United Kingdom from 2026, subject to regulatory approval. The companies plan to scale the fleet to thousands of vehicles across Europe in the following years, leveraging Lyft’s recent acquisition of Freenow, a major European ride-hailing platform operating in nine countries and over 180 cities. Baidu’s Apollo Go, which has already surpassed 11 million autonomous rides worldwide, will provide the sixth-generation RT6 electric vehicles for the European rollout.

Robin Li, co-founder, chairman, and chief executive officer of Baidu, described the move as “a significant milestone in our global journey.” He added, “This collaboration represents our commitment to making autonomous mobility accessible worldwide while working with local partners who understand their communities. By integrating Baidu’s cutting-edge autonomous driving technology with Lyft’s platform reach and operational expertise, we’re excited to deliver safer, greener, and more efficient mobility solutions to more users”.

David Risher, Lyft’s chief executive officer, emphasised the focus on customer experience. “Our partnership with Baidu is all about creating a great customer experience. Their extensive track record operating the world’s largest autonomous ride-hailing service means we can bring all the benefits of AVs — safety, reliability, and privacy — to millions of Europeans,” Risher said. He also highlighted Lyft’s approach of integrating autonomous vehicles with human drivers to offer a range of options for riders, while pledging to work closely with regulators to ensure a thoughtful and community-oriented deployment.

The partnership positions Lyft to compete more directly with Uber, which recently announced its own plans to deploy Baidu’s driverless cars in Asia and the Middle East. Both companies are vying to become leading platforms for autonomous mobility in Europe, where demand for sustainable transport solutions is growing.

Baidu’s Apollo Go vehicles are purpose-built for ridesharing and feature advanced safety and sensor systems. The companies have stated that the rollout will proceed in close consultation with European regulators and stakeholders to ensure compliance with safety and privacy standards.