Uber is set to make a significant stride in the world of autonomous transportation by offering rides on Waymo robotaxis through its app in Phoenix. This marks the first time Uber will provide autonomous rides without human drivers, following the discontinuation of its own robotaxi project.
The collaboration between Uber and Waymo will allow users in Phoenix to access robotaxi rides through the Uber app, with service options including UberX, Uber Green, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric. This innovative feature became available to users in Phoenix starting this Tuesday.
Users have the flexibility to choose whether they prefer a human-driven vehicle or a robotaxi, and they can adjust their settings accordingly. As users opt for the autonomous experience, the Uber app will increasingly offer robotaxi rides as a part of their transportation choices.
Similar to traditional rides, the fare for a Waymo robotaxi ride will be calculated upfront. Upon arrival, users can unlock the autonomous vehicle by tapping a designated button within the Uber app. Once inside the cabin, another tap is all it takes to start the journey.
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi shared in a blog post, “Expect the number of human drivers and driverless cars on the Uber platform to grow side-by-side for a long time to come as we continue to scale a hybrid global network that connects both modes.” This sentiment underlines the intention to harmoniously integrate autonomous and human-driven services into the Uber platform.
Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet, has been operating its autonomous ride service in Phoenix since 2020. However, the partnership with Uber is expected to significantly broaden the reach of Waymo’s robotaxi service, potentially attracting a larger customer base. Currently, Waymo’s robotaxis complete over 10,000 trips each week in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Notably, Waymo has also received permission to conduct its autonomous operations in San Francisco. This expansion may give Waymo an edge over its competitors, particularly after Cruise, a major rival, had its permit revoked following a recent hit-and-run incident involving a pedestrian.
Uber’s integration of Waymo’s robotaxis represents a major milestone in the evolution of autonomous transportation, offering users a glimpse into the future of mobility.