Waymo Launches in Atlanta with Uber

As previously reported it would, Waymo has just launched service in Atlanta, Georgia. It has done so in collaboration with Uber. So, starting today, if you want to hail a robotaxi in the city of Atlanta, you can.

Waymo’s preferred method of expansion now is clearly to launch exclusively on the Uber app, as it has also done in Austin, Texas. There’s no special Waymo or robotaxi option, but you can get a Waymo if you request an UberX, Comfort, or Comfort Electric ride. Also, “Uber customers in Atlanta who are excited about riding in a Waymo vehicle can boost their chances of getting matched by opting in via the Ride Preferences section of their Uber app under Settings.” Waymo is just using the Jaguar I-PACE in Atlanta for now.

“Before a nearby Waymo vehicle is sent your way, you’ll always have the option to accept or switch to a non-AV ride,” Uber points out, apparently concerned that some riders may not want a robotaxi. Uber also explains briefly how to use it and emphasizes the safety benefits of Waymo robotaxis:

• Familiar app, new experience: Once the Waymo vehicle arrives, riders can unlock the doors, open the trunk, and start the trip — all from their familiar Uber app. If assistance is needed at any time, riders will have access to 24/7 customer support, accessible in both the Uber app and Waymo’s in-car screens.
• Safety is a top priority: Safety is at the heart of what we do, so any AV on the Uber network must meet all our Safety Guidelines. With tens of millions of fully autonomous miles driven on public roads, the data shows Waymo’s vehicles are already reducing traffic injuries in the places where they currently operate.

For now, Waymo’s service is driving in 65 square miles of Atlanta. Though, as with the other cities where Waymo operates, the aim is to keep growing the service area over time.

As mentioned above, Waymo and Uber also cooperate for robotaxi service in Austin, where Waymo has deployed 100 vehicles. Waymo has a 4.9 star rating in Austin.

I’m going to refrain right now from pointing out some odd, illegal driver behavior that I’m sure we won’t see from Waymo in Atlanta. Perhaps the robotaxis aren’t perfect, but they’re close to it and super safe. Like elsewhere, I expect Waymo will have a stellar safety record in Atlanta and expand further before long.