Waymo & Uber Robotaxis Launch in Austin!
Get ready, Austin! The future is officially here. Waymo and Uber have joined forces to bring robotaxi service to the city, and it's launching today, exclusively through the Uber app. Remember back in September 2024 when they announced their plans to expand to Austin and Atlanta? Well, the Austin leg of the journey is now a reality.
Waymo even secured a whopping $5.6 billion in funding last October to fuel this expansion, so you know they're serious about this venture.
How does it work?
Unlike the dedicated Waymo One service in San Francisco and Los Angeles, in Austin, you could snag a ride in a Waymo just by ordering an UberX, Uber Green, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric. It's similar to how things are handled in Phoenix. While you aren't guaranteed a robotaxi every time, Uber suggests tweaking your "Ride Preferences" in the app to boost your chances.
The best part? Prices stay the same whether you get a human driver or a Waymo. And if you do end up in a robotaxi, ditch the tipping anxiety – it's not expected!
You'll manage everything – unlocking the Waymo, opening the trunk, and starting the ride – directly through the Uber app. Super convenient!
Uber says Waymo One will cover a significant 37 square miles in Austin. Plus, in a cool first, a third-party partner called Avomo will handle the storing, cleaning, and maintenance of the Waymo vehicles. This promises a more streamlined, professional taxi-like experience.
Competition in the Robotaxi Race
Waymo won't be the only self-driving player in Austin for long. Tesla is planning to launch its own robotaxi service in the city in June. However, Waymo seems to have a head start. Back in May 2024, they reported making 50,000 paid trips per week. It'll be interesting to see how quickly Tesla can reach that level.
Interestingly, Uber has also expressed interest in offering Tesla rides through its app. But for now, Tesla is going solo.
So, keep an eye out, Austin! Your next Uber ride might just be with a friendly robot.
Source: Engadget