Waymo, the Google-owned ridesharing company, is taking a big leap forward by allowing its driverless cars to operate on freeways in three major US cities and their surrounding areas. Get ready to spot those unique vehicles with spinning LiDAR units on their roofs in San Francisco, Phoenix, and Los Angeles.
The company hasn’t specified exactly how many driverless cars will hit the freeways initially, but they did mention that “a growing number of public riders” will get access. This means more people will soon experience the future of transportation firsthand. You can now plan your daily commutes, trips to the airport, or even just fun joyrides – like a cruise from downtown LA to Culver City – all in a self-driving car.
The expansion in San Francisco is quite significant, covering the entire peninsula. The service now extends all the way down to San Jose, including the San Jose Mineta International Airport. This greatly increases the convenience for travelers and residents alike in the Bay Area.
Waymo sees this as just the start of its freeway expansion. The company is confident in its technology, stating that its vehicles have already accumulated “millions of miles” on freeways. They say their cars are skilled at handling a wide range of highway conditions, ensuring a safe, smooth ride.
Looking ahead, Waymo plans to bring similar freeway services to Austin, Atlanta, and other cities they haven’t announced yet. Next year, they’re also launching driverless car services in San Diego, Detroit, and Las Vegas, though those cities won’t have freeway access right away. It’s an exciting time for driverless technology as it continues to become a bigger part of our everyday lives.
