Not even potholes will hold up self-driving cars, UK firm predicts
BBC World
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Self-driving cars are on track to revolutionize road travel, according to British startup Wayve, which predicts that autonomous vehicles will eventually navigate any road condition, including the UK’s notorious potholes. The company has secured a significant $1.5 billion investment from major players like Microsoft and Nvidia, marking one of the largest funding rounds for a British firm. This influx of capital is part of Wayve's ambitious plan to launch robotaxis in London later this year through its partnership with Uber.
Wayve’s CEO Alex Kendall expressed confidence that their AI-powered vehicles can handle diverse driving environments, including challenging urban landscapes like central London and rural areas across the UK. Unlike traditional autonomous systems that rely on pre-mapped routes, Wayve's technology enables cars to learn and adapt in real-time by processing data from sensors. This approach allows the vehicles to navigate dynamically, addressing unexpected obstacles such as potholes with ease.
The company faces stiff competition from global players like Waymo and Lyft, but its unique focus on UK-specific driving conditions gives it a competitive edge. Kendall emphasized that training AI to drive in London’s complex streets is a distinct challenge compared to the grid-like layouts of U.S. cities, where self-driving trials have already begun. Despite these hurdles, he remains optimistic about the future, predicting that all cars will eventually become autonomous.
The investment reflects investor confidence in the maturity of autonomous driving technology and its potential for commercial success. Rachel Harris of Simmons & Simmons highlighted the importance of regulatory frameworks in facilitating this transition, noting that the UK is well-positioned to lead both as a hub for innovation and as a center for shaping regulations. However, she stressed that regulators must keep pace with technological advancements to fully realize the benefits of autonomous vehicles.
As Wayve pushes ahead with its robotaxi plans, the success of self-driving cars could pave
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/25/2026