Robotaxis Arrive: Uber & Waymo Launch Service in Atlanta This Summer
Get ready, Atlanta! Uber and Waymo are teaming up to bring robotaxis to your city this summer. After a successful launch in Austin, the dynamic duo is setting their sights on Atlanta, inviting customers to join an interest list to be among the first to experience driverless rides.
The "Waymo on Uber" service is designed to make autonomous transportation accessible and convenient. Uber will handle the crucial aspects of fleet management, including charging, maintenance, and cleaning of Waymo's self-driving vehicles. They'll also manage access to the robotaxis through the familiar Uber app.
Waymo, on the other hand, will focus on the technological heart of the operation, monitoring the autonomous systems and providing rider assistance. Think of it as a perfect partnership where each company plays to its strengths.
From Rivals to Partners
It's quite a turnaround for Uber and Waymo, considering their history. Remember that lawsuit back in 2018 regarding alleged trade secret theft? Fast forward to today, and they're working together to revolutionize urban transportation.
Waymo has been diligently developing and testing its technology, launching commercial robotaxi services in Phoenix, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Uber, after selling its own autonomous vehicle unit, ATG, is now strategically partnering with various autonomous vehicle developers to solidify its position in the robotaxi market. They've already launched robotaxi rides in Abu Dhabi with WeRide, and Waymo vehicles have been available on Uber in Phoenix.
Initially, the service in Atlanta will cover 65 square miles, including key areas like Downtown, Buckhead, and Capitol View. But don't worry, there are plans to expand the operating territory in the future, so more Atlantans can experience the future of transportation.
Want to be an early adopter? Uber customers in Atlanta can join the interest list by updating their app, navigating to "Account," then "Settings," and finally "Ride Preferences." Keep an eye out for the autonomous vehicles option to sign up.
By joining the list, you'll receive updates and increase your chances of hailing a robotaxi once the service officially launches. You might even snag early access to Waymo rides before they're available to the general public. So, buckle up, Atlanta – the future of transportation is arriving soon!
Source: TechCrunch