Alphabet Inc.'s Self-Driving Division Expands Freeway Services in Three US Cities
Waymo, the Alphabet-owned self-driving car company, is taking its services to major highways in three US cities: San Francisco, Phoenix, and Los Angeles. The expansion will enable millions of commuters to enjoy a hands-free ride on freeways, including daily commutes, traveling to airports, or simply cruising around city limits.
San Francisco's service area spans the entire peninsula, reaching as far south as San Jose and including the San Jose Mineta International Airport. The newly expanded network allows passengers to access public rides with growing availability, providing a convenient option for those looking to play "spot the LiDAR" during their travels.
Waymo claims its vehicles have already logged millions of miles on freeways and can skillfully handle highway dynamics. With this expansion, commuters in these cities will be able to use Waymo's services for daily commutes, airport runs, or just leisurely driving. Families with children can now point out the peculiar spinning LiDAR units atop cars as they ride along.
The freeway expansion is the first phase of this development and assumes a smooth rollout of its autonomous vehicles. The company plans similar expansions in Austin, Atlanta, and other undisclosed regions next year, where it will also introduce self-driving services to San Diego, Detroit, and Las Vegas without accessing highways initially.
Waymo, the Alphabet-owned self-driving car company, is taking its services to major highways in three US cities: San Francisco, Phoenix, and Los Angeles. The expansion will enable millions of commuters to enjoy a hands-free ride on freeways, including daily commutes, traveling to airports, or simply cruising around city limits.
San Francisco's service area spans the entire peninsula, reaching as far south as San Jose and including the San Jose Mineta International Airport. The newly expanded network allows passengers to access public rides with growing availability, providing a convenient option for those looking to play "spot the LiDAR" during their travels.
Waymo claims its vehicles have already logged millions of miles on freeways and can skillfully handle highway dynamics. With this expansion, commuters in these cities will be able to use Waymo's services for daily commutes, airport runs, or just leisurely driving. Families with children can now point out the peculiar spinning LiDAR units atop cars as they ride along.
The freeway expansion is the first phase of this development and assumes a smooth rollout of its autonomous vehicles. The company plans similar expansions in Austin, Atlanta, and other undisclosed regions next year, where it will also introduce self-driving services to San Diego, Detroit, and Las Vegas without accessing highways initially.