Global robotaxi companies are competing to establish a foothold in London. Wayve and Uber Technologies have secured approval to offer supervised robotaxi rides in London, as rivals race to launch competing autonomous ride-hailing services in the city.

Transport for London has granted private-hire vehicle licenses to a number of Wayve's autonomous vehicles, the companies said Wednesday. The vehicles will operate with a trained and licensed private-hire driver behind the wheel to monitor the trip and take control when necessary.

Riders who have registered their interest will be invited to access the service later this summer, the companies said. The approval comes as global robotaxi companies compete to establish an early foothold in London, one of the most closely watched markets for autonomous driving outside the U.S. and China.