This could represent a first for the UK, but is likely to follow the introduction of similar services elsewhere including in the USA, where firms such as Uber and Google’s Waymo are already carrying out driverless taxi trials.

Addison Lee and Oxbotica will shortly begin creating detailed, digital maps of over 400,000km of public roads in and around London, recording the positions of every kerb, road sign, landmark and traffic light. Autonomous taxis will then use these maps in conjunction with on board sensors and control software to navigate.

“This represents a huge leap towards bringing autonomous vehicles into mainstream use on the streets of London, and eventually in cities across the United Kingdom and beyond,” said the software firm’s chief executive Graeme Smith.

Addison Lee Group chief executive Andy Boland added: “Urban transport will change beyond recognition in the next 10 years with the introduction of self driving services, and we intend to be at the very forefront of this change by acting now.

“Autonomous technology holds the key to many of the challenges we face in transport. By providing ride sharing services, we can help address congestion, free space used for parking and improve urban air quality through zero emission vehicles.”

Also commenting on the announcement, Transport for London’s director of transport innovation Michael Hurwitz, said: “Autonomous vehicle technology has the potential to significantly change travel – that’s why the Mayor’s Transport Strategy commits us to engaging with innovative companies, both now and in the future, at the earliest available opportunity.

“This will help ensure that the development of these types of vehicles is safe, environmentally friendly and benefits the city, complementing our focus on walking, cycling and green public transport.”

(Photograph: Oxbotica)