London's cabbies memorize 25,000 streets. But will robotaxis overtake them?
London's iconic black cab drivers are facing competition from emerging robotaxis powered by artificial intelligence. While tech companies claim these autonomous vehicles are safer and smarter, cabbies have a long-standing tradition and extensive knowledge of the city's streets. The rigorous 'Knowledge' exam, which requires memorizing 25,000 streets and landmarks, remains a point of pride for London's cab drivers.
- ▪Robotaxis are being introduced in London, competing with traditional black cabs.
- ▪Cabbies must pass a challenging test known as 'the Knowledge' to obtain their licenses.
- ▪The Knowledge exam requires memorizing 25,000 streets and thousands of landmarks.
- ▪Studies show that the brains of cab drivers adapt and grow due to their extensive memorization.
- ▪Cabbies emphasize the trust and personal connection they build with their passengers.
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| Original publisher | CBS News — Top |
| Canonical URL | https://www.cbsnews.com/news/london-cabbies-memorize-25000-streets-will-robotaxis-overtake-them-60-minutes-transcript/ |
| Publication time | Sun, 17 May 2026 19:17:51 -0400 |
| Retrieval time | 2026-05-17T23:23:21.104Z |
| Last seen | 2026-05-17T23:23:21.104Z |
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60 Minutes - Newsmakers Robotaxis are on the road to London. Cabbies, who pass a grueling test, aren't about to hand over their keys. .chip { background-image: url('/fly/bundles/cbsnewscore/images/chip-bgd/chip-bgd-60-minutes.jpg'); } By Anderson Cooper, Anderson Cooper 60 Minutes Correspondent Anderson Cooper, anchor of CNN's "Anderson Cooper 360," has contributed to 60 Minutes since 2006. His exceptional reporting on big news events has earned Cooper a reputation as one of television's preeminent newsmen. Read Full Bio Anderson Cooper, Katie Brennan May 17, 2026 / 7:17 PM EDT / CBS News Add CBS News on Google On ancient roads and in medieval alleyways in London, a very modern battle is brewing.
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