City Centre

Uber has officially started trialling driverless taxis in Manchester

Emily Sergeant Emily Sergeant

It’s official… driverless taxis have hit the streets of Manchester.

As the leading transportation company looks to bring robotaxis to other major cities around the UK, it has been confirmed that a trial of autonomous vehicles is now underway in Manchester – with the services being operated using the technology of Uber’s partner firms, Pony and Verne.

Uber said it was ‘excited’ to take this first step toward ‘making this technology accessible’ to people across the UK.

The three companies first collaborated on the deployment of a commercial robotaxi service back in March of this year, combining Pony.ai’s autonomous driving system, Uber’s global mobility platform, and Verne’s service ecosystem and operational framework. 

At this time, there has been no official application to launch passenger services in Manchester, according to The Guardian.

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However, posts on various social media platforms – such as X, LinkedIn, and Instagram – by each of the companies this week have confirmed that trials are underway in the city.

A statement from Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) on the rollout emphasises that safety is the ‘top priority’.

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“New technologies play an increasingly important role in the growth of our city region,” TfGM said. “But they need to be introduced responsibly, safely and with real thought about what it means for our residents.

“Safety will always be our top priority, and we will need strong assurances that no vehicles will operate on our roads that pose any risk to residents.”

Uber said it’s aiming to offer robotaxi trips in as many as 15 cities worldwide by the end of 2026.

“Through a strong ecosystem of partnerships, autonomous mobility can both scale globally and more effectively,” commented Uber CEO, Dara Khosrowshahi.

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“By bringing together Pony.ai’s proven autonomous driving technology, Verne’s operational and market expertise, and Uber’s global platform, we’re taking an important step toward making autonomous ride-hailing available to more riders in more places.”

Featured Image – Uber Investor

City Centre

Printworks is hosting a FREE ‘fireworks’ display on its digital ceiling this Bonfire Night

Emily Sergeant Emily Sergeant

Printworks is hosting a free ‘fireworks’ display on its digital ceiling next month.

Aiming to ‘bring Bonfire Night to life’ next month, Printworks has announced it’ll be hosting a dazzling evening of lights, music, stories, and Manchester spirit, as the iconic venue transforms Europe’s largest digital ceiling into a spectacular celebration for all the family.

Kicking off from 4:30pm, the free event will begin with an incredible display of ‘Manchester Stars’, where hundreds of stars will appear across the ceiling, each carrying the name of a real Manchester hero, creating a unique celebration of the people who make the city shine.

Members of the public can nominate someone to become a star, whether it’s a child, parent, grandparent, friend, colleague, community champion, or simply someone who deserves a little extra recognition. Nominations can be made here.

Printworks is hosting a free ‘fireworks’ display on its digital ceiling this Bonfire Night / Credit: Jason Lock (via Supplied)

Two cosy story time sessions with BBC Radio One and former CBBC presenter, Katie Thistleton, and children’s favourite, Hacker T Dog, will follow the star display, and each child will receive light-up headphones to enjoy the sessions in a dedicated chill-out zone.

Then comes the main event, Printworks’ digital ceiling will take centre stage for two firework displays between the story time sessions, including a dedicated SEN-friendly display at replacing the traditional loud noises with incredible visual effects, designed to offer a more accessible and welcoming way for families to enjoy the festivities.

The main fireworks and music experience will follow at 6:15pm, before the fun continues on into the evening with a live choir.

If you get a little peckish throughout the evening, there will also be a pop-up dessert cart serving Bonfire Night-inspired sweet treats, while Barney’s Coffee offers up an autumn drinks menu featuring seasonal favourites, such as pumpkin spice lattes and chocolate orange hot chocolates.

“We’re really excited to welcome back Printworks’ Bonfire Night event for the third year running,” explained Sophie Rooney, who is the Marketing Manager at Printworks.

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“With fewer bonfire and firework displays taking place in the city, it’s the perfect opportunity for families to come together and enjoy an evening of celebrations right here at Printworks.”

Printworks is promising an ‘immersive evening’ for all the family, free of charge. Find out more information and timings HERE.

Featured Image – Jason Lock (via Supplied)

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