Waymo One Launches in Phoenix

Waymo, the autonomous vehicle division of Alphabet, announced today plans to launch a commercial self-driving vehicle service. Called Waymo One, the new service will initially be available to members of Waymo’s early rider pilot program in the Phoenix area. In making the announcement, Waymo also shared its intent to make Waymo One available to even more members of the public, adding vehicles and the service to more locations across the country.

Below you will find commentary from Cox Automotive experts. If you would like to speak to anyone from our team, please contact us.

David Liniado, vice president, New Business, Cox Automotive:

“The future of driverless cars is accelerating beyond most predictions. Today’s launch of Waymo One, after ten years of development by the Google team, is a true milestone. Waymo’s focus on consumer acceptance, experience and complexities of local regulations has positioned Waymo to reach this critical step. The operational aspects of scaling will continue to be a key focus as the market moves from this pilot to a viable alternative for communities beyond Phoenix.”

Karl Brauer, executive publisher, Autotrader, Kelley Blue Book and Dealer.com:

“Waymo is advancing toward a future of self-driving cars, and the company is learning a lot along the way. Much of the energy surrounding autonomous vehicles has focused on the technological hurdles and how long it will take to overcome them. While many technology hurdles remain, and must be addressed, there is also a broad spectrum of non-tech-based challenges to resolve. Waymo’s early rider program is allowing the company to identify these issues, and its new Waymo One service will expand the company’s feedback system into a real-world business application. In the race for the self-driving car, this information is invaluable.”