ADCU accuses TfL of “abandoning London’s drivers” as Uber and Wayve prepare autonomous vehicle trial in the capital - Perry Richardson - 13 minutes ago - 2 min read The App Drivers’ and Couriers’ Union (ADCU) has accused Transport for London (TfL) of failing to provide answers over the planned rollout of autonomous vehicles in the capital, following announcements that Uber and autonomous driving technology firm Wayve are preparing for public trials. The union’s intervention comes after Uber and London-based Wayve opened an interest list for people wanting to take part in future autonomous vehicle journeys. Uber has described the technology as “tested and ready to go”, with London set to become the first city in the world to host commercial Wayve journeys before the technology expands to more than 10 cities globally. During the initial phase, the vehicles are expected to operate with a human safety driver behind the wheel. However, ADCU says fundamental questions remain unanswered about the role of those drivers and the regulatory framework surrounding the trials. According to the union, TfL has informed ADCU that it has not been involved in discussions regarding the proposed deployment and that no operator has formally approached the regulator. Cristina-Georgiana Ioanitescu, ADCU General Secretary, criticised TfL’s position, saying: “TfL cannot just abandon London’s drivers, shrug its shoulders and say ‘it’s nothing to do with us’ as massive global corporations fundamentally reshape the taxi and private hire industry.” Ioanitescu added that drivers require immediate clarity on licensing and accountability arrangements before any trial proceeds. “Our members need urgent answers from TfL about the use of human safety drivers during the trial phase,” she said. “Will these safety drivers be required to hold a valid TfL Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) licence? Who will be held liable if there is a technical