Waymo has asked California authorities for permission to launch a commercial drone taxi service in Los Angeles
Waymo
Waymo, which develops technology for autonomous driving and is part of Alphabet Inc. has filed an application with the California Public Utilities Commission seeking permission to launch a commercial driverless taxi service in Los Angeles and the suburbs.
Here's What We Know
Currently, Waymo already offers robotaxi services in Phoenix and San Francisco. The company claims its vehicles make tens of thousands of trips per week. The launch of the service in Los Angeles will cover the second largest city in the US with a population of 4 million people.
We've applied to the @californiapuc to extend our driverless deployment service to include LA, and we'll continue our work w/ local policymakers, first responders & community organisations there. Angelenos, join us for a ride! https://t.co/bGP0imibM6 pic.twitter.com/KfFbCRp0V7
- Waymo (@Waymo) January 20, 2024
The regulator's decision has not yet been made, with the Commission collecting public feedback until 8 February. Experts note that no accidents involving Waymo cars have been recorded, although they sometimes get into accidents due to the fault of other drivers.
That said, authorities in some cities in the service's launch zone, including West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson, have raised concerns and urged Waymo to engage in dialogue.
- Erickson said"I really want these organizations to reach out and come to the cities that they’re going to be driving in"
He also believes the approach to transport in Los Angeles is not working.
"I have witnessed firsthand the dangerous nature of drivers on our streets. They take residential streets and use them as freeways" Erickson added.
Beverly Hills Mayor Julian Gold, on the contrary, supported the initiative, noting that the company will pass the necessary safety checks.
"We know that companies such as WAYMO and those that follow will undergo the appropriate safety and testing protocols in advance of significant deployment" he said.
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Source: NBC
