Lyft Partners with China’s Baidu to Launch Robotaxis in Europe by 2026
Ride-hailing giant Lyft has announced a strategic partnership with Baidu, the Chinese tech company known for its advancements in autonomous driving technology. Together, the two companies plan to roll out robotaxis in select European cities by 2026, marking a major move in the global race toward self-driving transportation.
The partnership will combine Lyft’s mobility network and local operations expertise with Baidu’s Apollo autonomous driving platform, which has been tested in China and has logged millions of kilometers on public roads.
In a joint statement, both companies emphasized their shared commitment to safer, greener, and more efficient urban mobility. The initiative is expected to begin pilot programs in cities with favorable regulatory environments and strong public transportation infrastructures.
“We’re excited to bring the next generation of transportation to Europe,” said Logan Green, CEO of Lyft. “By teaming up with Baidu, we’re leveraging best-in-class technology to improve how people move through their cities.”
Baidu’s Apollo Go robotaxi service, already operational in several Chinese cities, has been one of the frontrunners in the autonomous vehicle (AV) market. With this expansion into Europe, Baidu aims to establish itself as a global AV technology leader.
The European rollout will focus on sustainability and user safety, with all robotaxis expected to be electric. The companies will also work closely with city governments to ensure integration with existing transport systems and compliance with local laws.
This move signals a major shift in the mobility landscape, as both U.S. and Chinese tech firms increasingly collaborate on global solutions. If successful, this venture could significantly accelerate the mainstream adoption of autonomous ride-hailing services across Europe.
