Waymo Launches Robotaxi Testing in Atlanta

Jace Dela Cruz, Tech Times 17 April 2024, 05:04 am

Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet specializing in self-driving technology, has initiated testing of its robotaxis in Atlanta, marking a new phase in its expansive testing and deployment efforts, as reported first by TechCrunch.

"We're taking the #WaymoDriver to the ATL as we continue evaluating how our system generalizes to different environments and new experiences," the company wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

Waymo's Self Driving Taxis Launch In Los Angeles — LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA—MARCH 14: The Waymo logo is displayed atop a Waymo autonomous self-driving Jaguar taxi near Venice Beach on March 14, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. Beginning today, Waymo One offers robotaxi services in a 63-square-mile area of greater Los Angeles, including Santa Monica, Venice, and downtown, with over 50,000 people on the waitlist. Waymo is owned by Alphabet, Google’s parent company. (Photo: Mario Tama/Getty Images)

Waymo Expands its Fleet of Vehicles in Atlanta

In the coming months, Waymo plans to deploy a fleet of vehicles driven by human operators to gather mapping data and acquaint themselves with the unique characteristics of Atlanta's roadways and surroundings.

Following this initial phase, Waymo intends to test its autonomous vehicles in Atlanta without a safety driver present.

The decision to expand testing to Atlanta aligns with Waymo's strategy of evaluating its autonomous driving system, known as the Waymo Driver, in diverse urban environments to enhance its adaptability and safety features.

Waymo's approach involves deploying a limited number of vehicles equipped with the Waymo Driver to a new city, where human specialists initially operate manually. This hands-on approach allows the Waymo Driver to familiarize itself with the local driving conditions and landmarks.

Once the Waymo Driver has gained sufficient understanding of its operating environment, the vehicles transition to autonomous mode, with human specialists onboard to provide feedback and address any unique challenges the new location poses.

The insights gathered during testing are crucial for refining the capabilities of the Waymo Driver and optimizing the overall service experience. Waymo's extensive experience testing in various cities has contributed to advancements in sensing technology and improved performance in existing operational areas.

Waymo's Expansion

While Waymo has not disclosed specific plans for commercial deployment in Atlanta or other cities where testing is underway, the company remains focused on expanding its autonomous ride-hailing service in its operating regions.

Georgia's minimal regulation of autonomous vehicles allows Waymo to conduct testing without the presence of a safety driver, provided it meets certain risk conditions outlined by the state.

Waymo's recent territorial expansions include the official launch of paid robotaxi rides in Los Angeles and regulatory approval to expand its San Francisco Bay Area commercial service.

Additionally, the company has been offering autonomous rides to and from Phoenix's airport since November 2022, with recent expansions to include curbside pickup and drop-off services, as noted by TechCrunch.