Los Angeles, California – Waymo has received approval to expand its self-driving robotaxi service on highways in select areas of Los Angeles and the Bay Area, marking a significant milestone in the company’s development. The California regulator’s decision allows Waymo’s autonomous vehicles to travel at speeds of up to 65mph on local roads and highways within approved zones.
Julia Ilina, a spokesperson for Waymo, emphasized the company’s cautious approach to expansion, describing it as “careful and incremental.” She also indicated that there are currently no immediate plans to extend the service to highways beyond the approved areas.
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) conducted an evaluation of Waymo’s technology and safety practices and concluded that the company demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and risk mitigation in its operations involving driverless passenger service. This assessment prompted CPUC to grant Waymo permission to commence its expansion efforts without delay.
In its decision, CPUC addressed requests from the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) for evidentiary hearings on disputed facts related to the expansion. CPUC denied the request, stating that LADOT had not identified material facts that warranted formal hearings for resolution. Additionally, CPUC dismissed requests to wait for the resolution of Senate Bill 915, which could potentially grant cities more regulatory control over robotaxis. The commission deemed these requests as beyond the scope of its current authority.
Various groups expressed support for Waymo’s expansion, citing the potential safety, accessibility, economic, and environmental benefits of the service. However, concerns were raised by organizations like the American Council of the Blind, which urged CPUC to establish new safety and accessibility standards before approving Waymo’s expansion. CPUC rebuffed these requests, asserting that these issues fell under broader autonomous vehicle policy matters.
Overall, Waymo’s expansion into new areas signifies a significant step forward in the development and integration of autonomous vehicles into everyday transportation systems. The decision by CPUC reflects a balance between promoting innovation and ensuring the safety and well-being of the public as new technologies emerge and evolve.