Waymo and Uber Robotaxi Launch in Atlanta

Uber and Waymo Expand Robotaxi Service to Atlanta

Uber is currently inviting residents of Atlanta to register their interest in utilizing Waymo robotaxis. This initiative precedes the anticipated launch of a commercial robotaxi service within the city limits.

Partnership Details and Timeline

The collaboration between Uber and Waymo, initially announced in September, aims to introduce robotaxi services in both Austin and Atlanta by early 2025. Following this plan, the companies initiated the “Waymo on Uber” service in Austin in March. This launch was preceded by the creation of an “interest list” for potential customers.

According to a statement released on Tuesday, the public will have the ability to summon a robotaxi in Atlanta starting this summer.

Operational Responsibilities

The “Waymo on Uber” service establishes a clear division of labor regarding the operation of a driverless vehicle fleet. Uber will be responsible for essential logistical tasks. These include charging, routine maintenance, and cleaning of the autonomous vehicles.

Furthermore, Uber will manage customer access to the robotaxis through its existing application. Waymo, conversely, will focus on monitoring the technological aspects and the autonomous driving operations, providing rider assistance as needed.

It’s important to note that access to Waymo’s fleet of autonomous Jaguar I-PACE vehicles will be exclusively available to Uber users.

From Legal Dispute to Strategic Alliance

The current partnership represents a significant shift in the relationship between Uber and Waymo. Previously, in 2018, the two companies were embroiled in a legal battle. Uber was accused of misappropriating trade secrets belonging to Waymo.

This lawsuit was ultimately settled in February 2018. Since then, Waymo has dedicated itself to the development, testing, and eventual commercial deployment of robotaxi services, beginning in Phoenix.

Expansion of Waymo’s Service Area

Waymo subsequently broadened its commercial operations to include San Francisco and Los Angeles. Uber’s path toward offering a commercial robotaxi service was more complex.

Following the settlement, Uber continued to develop its own autonomous vehicle division, known as Uber ATG, for two years. This subsidiary was then sold to Aurora in December 2020 in a multifaceted transaction.

Uber's Strategic Shift and Partnerships

Uber quickly pivoted to secure its position in the developing robotaxi market through strategic partnerships with various autonomous vehicle developers. The company now has agreements with 14 autonomous vehicle firms.

These agreements encompass ride-hailing, delivery, and trucking services, with several already operating commercially. In December, Uber launched robotaxi rides in Abu Dhabi in collaboration with WeRide. Waymo’s autonomous vehicles have been integrated into the Uber app in Phoenix since October 2023.

Atlanta Service Details

Atlanta is poised to become the latest city where residents can hail a driverless vehicle. The initial service area will encompass 65 square miles, including key areas such as Downtown, Buckhead, and Capitol View.

The companies have indicated plans to expand the operational territory in the future.

Joining the Interest List

Uber and Waymo encourage interested customers in Atlanta to join the waitlist. This will provide them with updates and enhance their chances of accessing the robotaxi service upon its official launch.

Subscribers may also receive early access to Waymo rides before they become widely available to the public.

How to Register

To join the interest list, Uber customers in Atlanta should first update their app. Then, navigate to “Account” and subsequently “Settings.” Within “Settings,” select “Ride Preferences,” where an option to join the autonomous vehicle interest list will be displayed.