Waymo now operating in 14 cities including Denver, San Diego, and Tampa
Waymo is now providing public rides in 14 cities, with its service launch in Denver, San Diego, and Tampa on Tuesday.
Tens of thousands in each of the three cities have already signed up for fully autonomous rides through the service, a news release states. Waymo adds that it will steadily offer more riders access in each city.
“From coast to coast, we’re focused on making everyday transportation safer, easier, and more accessible,” said Suzanne Philion, Waymo chief marketing officer, in the release. “Launching public rides in San Diego, Tampa, and in my home state of Colorado brings our newest vehicle platform and next-generation driver to more riders who are ready to experience the future of mobility.”
The release notes that Waymo’s service areas in each city are designed around the places riders need and want to go. It adds that over time, the service will gradually expand its presence.
“Colorado is leading the country in clean energy and innovation, and Waymo’s launch helps us achieve cleaner air sooner,” said Colorado Gov. Jared Polis in the release. “This significant investment expands clean mobility choices for Coloradans. We are proud to support forward-thinking solutions that lead to economic growth and build a safer, cleaner transportation future across our state.”
Tampa Mayor Jan Castor said the city has an “innovative spirit” and draws companies that are at the forefront of technology.
“Waymo’s launch in Tampa provides another effective — and exciting — way to get around, helping us in our goal to strengthen our transportation network and provide options for every preference or need,” Castor said in the release.
Waymo says it has been validating driver performance on local streets in each city for months. It points to research it has completed that shows 94% fewer injuries than a human driver. This includes 82% fewer airbag deployments.
“We’ve also focused on getting to know the community,” the release states. “That includes working closely with local first responders so they can get to know our teams and learn how to interact with our technology, supporting our shared goal of keeping roads safe. We also stay in regular communication with local officials to keep them updated on our progress.”
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued a public call to action to automated vehicle developers regarding what it calls a pattern of interference with first responders.
The letter states NHTSA expects developers to prioritize first responder interaction.
“NHTSA has already been active in this space and will continue to exercise our enforcement authority for developers that do not address significant safety concerns,” the letter states. “Public trust on our roads is earned, not given.”
Waymo’s website shows it is already working to expand to another 18 cities.
Zoox, Waymo’s competition, currently operates in Las Vegas and San Francisco. It is also working on expanding to Austin and Miami.
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Photo courtesy of Waymo