Waymo Approved for Self-Driving Tests in NYC

Waymo Receives Autonomous Vehicle Testing Permit in New York City

Waymo has received authorization to begin testing its self-driving vehicles within New York City, marking the first approval of its kind issued by the city government.

The company communicated to TechCrunch its intention to commence testing procedures “immediately.”

Testing Parameters and Restrictions

The approved permit allows for the deployment of up to eight Waymo Jaguar I-Pace SUVs in Manhattan and Downtown Brooklyn until the end of September.

A fully qualified safety operator is required to be present in the driver’s seat of each vehicle at all times, maintaining at least one hand on the steering wheel.

Currently, Waymo is prohibited from offering passenger pick-up services, as this would necessitate a separate license from the city’s Taxi and Limousine Commission.

Regular meetings and data reporting to the city’s Department of Transportation (DOT) are also mandated, as outlined by the mayor’s office.

Expansion and Challenges

This permit represents a significant advancement for Waymo as it progresses toward potentially launching a robotaxi service in New York City.

Such a launch would likely be the company’s most demanding undertaking to date.

Waymo currently operates autonomous vehicle services in San Francisco, Austin, Phoenix, and Los Angeles.

Notably, these cities generally experience warmer climates, and only San Francisco presents a comparable level of operational complexity to New York City.

Preparation and Regulatory Compliance

Waymo has been actively preparing for this opportunity for several years, beginning in 2021 with the manual mapping of the city using its Chrysler Pacifica minivans.

Securing this permit was not guaranteed; the company submitted its application in June and subsequently engaged in discussions with legislators and community groups, including Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

The permit is a component of a new autonomous vehicle safety framework initiated by Mayor Eric Adams in 2024.

The application process required Waymo to collaborate with emergency services and submit a comprehensive testing plan to the DOT, alongside a detailed safety plan outlining the qualifications of its vehicle operators.

Furthermore, Waymo has secured the “necessary permits” from the New York state Department of Motor Vehicles, according to the mayor’s office.

Future Operations

Should Waymo wish to continue its testing beyond late September, it will be required to submit a request for an extension.

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