Self-driving vehicle pioneer Waymo has named Austin as its next deployment city for autonomous vehicles (AVs), adding to its current operations in Phoenix, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
Over recent months, Waymo's team has been testing the Waymo One system around downtown Austin using the all-electric Jaguar I-PACE vehicles. After satisfactory early testing, the company plans to launch its initial phase of operations this fall, aiming to make their vehicles a reliable and readily available transport option for Austin residents.
The Waymo Driver, as the system is known, will initially service popular areas including downtown, Barton Hills, Riverside, East Austin, and Hyde Park, among others.
Waymo’s Chief Product Officer, Saswat Panigrahi, expressed excitement about the new venture. He stated, "Austin is one of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in the country, and our Waymo Driver is quickly adapting to its complex cityscape. Autonomous vehicles promise safer, greener, and more accessible transportation, and we’re eager for the people of Austin to experience these benefits."
The news comes on the heels of Waymo's recent announcement that it would slow down its self-driving truck initiative to focus on its autonomous ride-hailing service. Consequently, the company plans to delay the launch of its commercial and operational trucking efforts.
Waymo's ride-hailing service has seen substantial growth. In May, the company made its robotaxis bookable via the Uber app and also expanded its service area in Phoenix and San Francisco.
Austin's status as the second-fastest-growing major city economy in the U.S. provides Waymo with substantial opportunities for commercial expansion. In its service design, the company has engaged with advocates for accessibility to ensure its offerings cater to traditionally underserved groups, such as visually impaired individuals.
Emily Coleman, Superintendent of the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, emphasized the importance of autonomous vehicles for those with visual impairments, stating,
"One of the biggest hurdles for blind individuals is dependence on others for transportation. Autonomous vehicles can give them the freedom to travel independently and lead the lives they desire without having to rely on strangers."
Waymo also prioritizes the safety of other road users, including pedestrians and cyclists. For instance, its Safe Exit feature aims to reduce "dooring" incidents with cyclists by notifying passengers of any nearby individuals before they open the door.
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