Waymo Accelerates Autonomous Ambitions With Driverless Ride Launch in Austin
Waymo, Alphabet's autonomous vehicle subsidiary, launched driverless ride services for employees in Austin, Texas, covering a 43-square-mile area. This is a step toward expanding its 'Waymo One' ride-hailing program. Waymo recently received permission to charge for rides in Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area. Austin becomes the fourth location for Waymo's autonomous vehicles. Waymo's history in Austin dates to 2015. Despite industry setbacks (Cruise investigation, Argo AI suspension), Waymo continues expansion. Waymo One is important for revenue after discontinuing its autonomous trucking program.