Robotaxis in Atlanta: Uber and Waymo Launch Commercial Service

Waymo and Uber Expand Robotaxi Service to Atlanta

Waymo robotaxis are now available for booking through the Uber app in Atlanta. This expansion of their partnership, initially launched in Austin, was announced by both companies on Tuesday. The service will initially cover approximately 65 square miles within the Atlanta metropolitan area.

Potential for Growth

A successful rollout in Atlanta is anticipated to significantly benefit both Uber and Waymo. Uber currently maintains partnerships with 18 different autonomous vehicle companies.

The company reports an annual rate of 1.5 million mobility and delivery trips utilizing autonomous vehicles on its network. Waymo, independently, provides around 250,000 paid robotaxi rides each week across multiple cities including Austin, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and San Francisco.

The inclusion of Atlanta in the service area is expected to increase these figures.

Fleet Expansion

Currently, Waymo’s fleet operating in Atlanta consists of “dozens” of vehicles. A company spokesperson indicated to TechCrunch that this number will be increased over time.

Previous statements from the companies suggest the combined fleet size for Atlanta and Austin will eventually reach the hundreds.

How "Waymo on Uber" Works

The “Waymo on Uber” service represents a unique integration of robotaxis and traditional, human-driven vehicles. Uber app users have the option to indicate a preference for a Waymo vehicle.

This differs from the standard operating model in cities where Waymo operates independently. In those locations, riders utilize the Waymo One app to directly request a robotaxi.

When matched with a Waymo vehicle through Uber, users can either accept the ride or opt for a human driver. Upon arrival, the Uber app is used to unlock the vehicle, access the trunk, and initiate the journey.

Pricing and Responsibilities

The cost of a robotaxi ride will be equivalent to that of an UberX, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric ride with a human driver, according to the companies.

This partnership divides the operational responsibilities. Uber is responsible for the charging, maintenance, and cleaning of the autonomous vehicles, as well as managing access through its application.

Waymo, conversely, focuses on the technological aspects and autonomous operations, including roadside assistance and specific areas of rider support.

Partnership Timeline

In September of last year, Uber and Waymo initially announced their plans to introduce a robotaxi service in both Austin and Atlanta, targeting an early 2025 launch as part of a broader partnership. The “Waymo on Uber” service began operating in Austin in March.

Waymo currently operates a fleet of over 100 robotaxis in its Austin commercial service.