Waymo on Uber in Austin: Robotaxi Launch Imminent

Waymo Robotaxi Integration with Uber in Austin

Austin-based Uber riders are now presented with a novel option within the application: the ability to express their interest in utilizing a Waymo robotaxi for their transportation needs.

Currently, selecting this option doesn’t immediately result in a driverless pickup. However, this functionality signals an impending change.

This “interest list,” initiated on Wednesday, signifies a collaborative effort between Uber and Waymo to introduce a robotaxi service in both Austin and Atlanta by early 2025. The rollout is anticipated to commence shortly in Austin, though a definitive launch date remains undisclosed by either company.

Uber's Return to Autonomous Vehicle Technology

The “Waymo on Uber” service represents Uber’s renewed commitment to autonomous vehicle technology. Previously, Uber divested its own autonomous vehicle division, Uber ATG, through an agreement with Aurora in December 2020.

Interestingly, Uber and Waymo were once significant competitors, engaging in legal disputes concerning allegations of trade secret theft by Uber from Waymo (which was then a part of Google/Alphabet, and continues to have Alphabet as a major stakeholder) – these suits were ultimately settled.

Over the past few years, Uber has been actively strengthening its position within the developing robotaxi market. The company has established partnerships with 14 autonomous vehicle companies spanning ride-hailing, delivery, and trucking sectors, with several already operating commercially.

In December, Uber initiated robotaxi services with WeRide in Abu Dhabi, and Waymo’s autonomous vehicles have been accessible through the Uber app in Phoenix since October 2023.

Exclusive Partnership in Austin and Atlanta

The collaboration with Waymo in Austin and Atlanta will be characterized by a greater degree of exclusivity.

Specifically, only Uber users will have the ability to request rides from Waymo’s fleet of autonomous Jaguar I-PACE vehicles. Waymo currently operates a fleet in Phoenix and is transitioning operational responsibilities to Moove.

Uber will be responsible for the charging, maintenance, and cleaning of the autonomous vehicles, as well as managing user access through the application. Waymo will continue to oversee the technology and autonomous operations, including providing rider support.

Service Area and Expansion Plans

Initially, the Waymo robotaxis will serve customers within a 37-square-mile radius of Austin, encompassing areas like downtown, Hyde Park, and Montopolis. The companies intend to broaden this service area over time.

The initial Waymo robotaxi fleet size was not revealed, but it is expected to expand to hundreds of vehicles across both Austin and Atlanta in the coming years.

Pricing and Interest List

Uber has confirmed that riders matched with a Waymo vehicle will be charged the same rates as traditional options like UberX or Uber Comfort.

Users who register on the “interest list” will receive updates from Uber and improve their likelihood of being assigned a Waymo autonomous vehicle upon launch. Austin-based Uber customers can join by updating their app and navigating to the settings menu.

Within settings, users should select “ride preferences” to find the option for autonomous vehicles.