How we test
We evaluate our self-driving technology by running it through rigorous testing in simulation, on closed courses, and on public roads.
How we test
Multi-environment testing
Virtual testing
Before our autonomous driving software reaches the road, it undergoes extensive testing in a virtual world with millions of simulated driving scenarios. This allows us to determine how our software will respond in situations that are too difficult or unsafe for public-road testing, or edge cases that we are unlikely to encounter during real-world testing.
Closed course testing
We use test track facilities to stress-test every part of our self-driving system. Here, we can safely test whether our technology behaves on the track as it did in virtual testing. We can also see how our system would handle challenging traffic situations without exposing the public to risky interactions.
On-road testing
On-road testing is essential to developing and validating our self-driving technology. It provides real-world data that can only be obtained by driving on public roads. We started testing on public roads in London and other UK cities in 2018. Our daily on-road trials take place with an expert safety operator behind the wheel at all times.
Our expertly trained AV safety operators
Our expert safety operators are highly trained, highly skilled drivers who monitor Wayve’s autonomous vehicles during testing. The driver’s role is like an instructor: they ensure the technology drives correctly and act as an extra safety precaution. Our AV safety operators participate in an intensive proprietary training program and undergo regular evaluations of their specialised driving skills.
Also of interest
Safety framework
Our safety framework draws upon the two most prominent guidelines in Europe and the US.
Discover more
Wayve's Safety Operators
Meet Shirley one of our Autonomous Vehicle Safety Operators (AVSO) at Wayve.
Meet Shirley
Introducing Wayve Infinity Simulator
Simulation is a superpower critical to unlocking safe and adaptable autonomous driving.
Learn more