Waymo has launched a new robotaxi service that will allow some residents of San Francisco to hail autonomous rides, but only in certain parts of the city.
The company announced the Waymo One Trusted Tester program on Tuesday, saying it will help shape the future of autonomous ride-hailing.
The program initially launched last week with a select group of ‘Trusted Testers’. That has now been expanded to “all interested San Franciscans” who will be able to hail one of the self-driving vehicles using the Waymo One mobile app.
Image via WaymoThe company said the program will only be available in their pre-mapped “initial service area”, which according to their map does not include San Francisco’s downtown core.
Image via WaymoTo ensure everyone’s safety, a Waymo “autonomous specialist” will be on board, and feedback will be gathered from riders to help refine the service.
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The Waymo One Trusted Tester program runs with a fleet of all-electric Jaguar I-Pace vehicles equipped with the the fifth-generation Waymo Driver system.
Those interested in participating will be able to sign up for the program later today through the Waymo One mobile app.
