Lyft will roll out Chinese-made robotaxis in Europe through a Baidu partnership. The move targets Germany and the UK for a 2026 launch, pending regulatory green lights.
Baidu’s RT6 robotaxis run on its Apollo Go self-driving system. They’ll appear inside Lyft’s ride-hailing app, blending autonomous vehicles with human drivers.
Lyft CEO David Risher stated: 
“The robotaxi service is an example of its ‘hybrid network approach, where AVs and human drivers work together to provide customer-obsessed options for riders.’”
This deal builds on Lyft’s recent European push after acquiring Germany’s FREENOW app from BMW and Mercedes-Benz Mobility for $197 million.
Both Lyft and Uber have moved away from building their own AV tech. Now they’re snapping up partnerships. Uber’s deals cover autonomous ride-hailing, delivery, and trucking with firms like May Mobility, Volkswagen, Momenta, WeRide, and Baidu.
Lyft’s been slower but has plans for Austrian autonomous shuttles from Benteler Group in 2026 and May Mobility AVs in Atlanta this year.
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