Waymo’s Self-Driving Jaguar I-Pace Taxis Begin UK Testing – What It Means
Waymo has rolled out fully autonomous Jaguar I-Pace SUVs for ride‑hailing trials in London, marking the UK’s first government‑backed driverless taxi pilot.
Waymo’s Self-Driving Jaguar I-Pace Taxis Begin UK Testing – What It Means
Image: Waymo’s Self-Driving Jaguar I-Pace Taxis Begin UK Testing – What It Means – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The I-Pace keeps its sleek, coupe‑like silhouette while Waymo adds discreet sensor pods and a roof‑mounted lidar array. The look is still unmistakably Jaguar – sharp lines, a closed‑grill front and a modern electric‑car aesthetic. Inside, the cabin is stripped of a steering wheel and pedals, replaced by a spacious passenger area and large windows for a panoramic view.
Performance & Mileage
Under the skin the I-Pace runs on two electric motors delivering around 400 hp and 550 Nm of torque, enough to zip from 0‑60 mph in 4.8 seconds. Waymo’s software limits top speed to 50 mph for safety in city traffic. The battery offers roughly 234 miles (WLTP) on a single charge, and fast‑charging can top up to 80 % in about 40 minutes.
Price & Rivals
Waymo’s trial vehicles are not for sale, but the production I-Pace starts at about £70,000 in the UK. Competing autonomous projects include Uber’s upcoming fleet (partnered with Wayve) and Nissan’s autonomous Leaf trials. All aim to prove that driverless EVs can reduce congestion and road deaths.
Key Specs at a Glance
| Engine | Dual electric motors (≈400 hp) |
|---|---|
| Mileage | ≈234 mi WLTP |
| Price | ≈£70,000 (retail) |
| Top Features |
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FAQ
- How far can the Waymo I-Pace travel on one charge? About 230‑240 miles under WLTP testing, which is typical for this class of EV.
- When will driverless taxis be legal on UK roads? Full public use is expected in the second half of next year, after the current pilot phase ends.
- Is the autonomous I-Pace safer than a regular taxi? Yes – removing the human driver eliminates distraction and fatigue, two major factors in road accidents.
What do you think about driverless electric taxis in your city? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
