Waymo Launches Autonomous Robotaxis in Miami, Plans US Expansion

Waymo, an Alphabet company, began operating fully autonomous vehicles in Miami on Tuesday, initiating an expansion of its ride-hailing service to more U.S. cities. This move accelerates the company's efforts to lead in self-driving technology.

Credit: WAYMO

Waymo plans to roll out operations for its employees in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando in the coming weeks. A public launch for riders in these areas is anticipated in 2026.

Credit: WAYMO

Spun out of Google's self-driving project in 2016, Waymo is the only operator offering paid robotaxi rides in the U.S. without safety drivers or in-vehicle monitors. Its operational fleet currently exceeds 1,500 vehicles.

This expansion highlights the growing competition to commercialise fully autonomous vehicles. Key players are concentrating on safety, technology refinement, and regulatory cooperation to gain market share.

Competitors, including Tesla and Amazon's Zoox, are investing significantly in autonomous technology development. Robotaxi organisations have faced scrutiny following a series of incidents.

Operators are betting that broader deployments and improved safety data may help ease operational concerns. Tesla CEO Elon Musk stated last month the electric carmaker aims to introduce its robotaxi service in eight to 10 U.S. metro areas by year-end.

This introduction is subject to regulatory approval. Musk also expects to remove human safety monitors in large parts of Austin within the same timeframe.

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• Waymo launched fully autonomous robotaxis in Miami, expanding its U.S. ride-hailing service.

• The company plans employee operations in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando, with a public launch set for 2026.

• Waymo is the sole U.S. operator offering paid robotaxi rides without safety drivers, utilising a fleet of over 1,500 vehicles.

Source: REUTERS