Waymo appeared in the Uber app: registration for robotaxi rides in the US
Uber in Austin, the US, has launched a new feature in its app - users can sign up for a list of those interested in riding a Waymo robotaxi. This is still a preliminary registration, but the service will be available soon.
Here's What We Know
This interest list is part of a partnership between Uber and Waymo that will see the launch of robotaxis in Austin and Atlanta in early 2025. Although the exact launch date has not yet been announced, the service should start soon.
Uber sold its autonomous car division Uber ATG to Aurora in 2020. Previously, Uber and Waymo were competitors, fighting in lawsuits over the theft of trade secrets.
A Waymo robot taxi. Illustration: Waymo
However, in Austin and Atlanta, the cooperation between the companies will be more exclusive. Uber users will be able to order only Waymo's autonomous cars, including the Jaguar I-PACE. Uber will be responsible for charging, maintaining and cleaning the vehicles, while Waymo will monitor the technical condition and autonomous operations.
The first robot taxis will operate in a 37-square-mile area within Austin. The service will expand over time. Users who sign up for the list of interested parties will be able to receive updates and increase their chances of riding a robotaxi at launch.
Last December, Uber, in collaboration with WeRide , launched a robotaxi service in the United Arab Emirates. Now Abu Dhabi residents can order a robotic taxi through the Uber app. As in the case of a regular taxi, the service is paid for in advance, and the tariffs will be in line with UberX and Uber Comfort prices.
Source: Uber
