This week, Uber Technologies Inc. launched Waymo driverless taxi services in Atlanta, marking the second city partnership following the launch in Austin.
Launch of Driverless Taxi Service
The service will cover roughly 65 square miles (168 square kilometers) and operate from downtown through Buckhead to Capitol View. Uber plans to extend the range further as more of Waymo’s self-driving Jaguar I-PACE vehicles arrive on the platform.
Plans for Uber and Waymo
Earlier this year, Uber added an option in its app for riders to flag their interest in an autonomous ride. Passengers choosing driverless cars will still receive a prompt and can switch to a human-driven vehicle before the trip begins.
Competition in the Robotaxi Field
Robotaxi competition is rising in Atlanta. Lyft Inc. plans to launch its own autonomous service with safety operators in partnership with May Mobility Inc. this summer. Meanwhile, Tesla launched its taxi service, charging a flat fee while providing an employee on board for safety.
The launch of Waymo in Atlanta raises the stakes in the race for autonomous vehicles and may influence investor opinions on Uber's future in this growing market.
