Waymo and Uber launch commercial robotaxi service in Atlanta

Waymo’s robotaxi service is now available to Uber users in Atlanta. The companies have expanded their partnership, which previously saw ‘Waymo on Uber’ operating in Austin, to cover a 65-square-mile area in Atlanta. The commercial service is expected to grow, with Waymo’s fleet in the city initially consisting of dozens of autonomous vehicles. The service allows Uber users to be matched with Waymo robotaxis, which they can accept or opt to switch to a human-driven ride. Users will have the ability to unlock and start the ride via the Uber app. Pricing for robotaxi rides will match that of UberX, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric, driven by a human. Uber handles fleet maintenance and management, while Waymo oversees the autonomous technology. This service expansion follows successful pilot programs in other cities like Phoenix and Los Angeles, where Waymo offers paid rides weekly. The launch in Atlanta is a significant milestone in the companies’ plan to expand the use of autonomous vehicles and autonomous taxi services in more cities.