California approves Waymo's expansion of robotaxi services

Waymo has been granted permission by California regulators to expand its self-driving robotaxi operations onto highways in parts of Los Angeles and the Bay Area.

This approval allows Waymo vehicles to travel up to 65mph on local roads and highways within designated areas.

Waymo spokesperson Julia Ilina emphasized that the company's expansion will be carried out cautiously and gradually, with no immediate plans to extend highway services. 

Previously, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) had temporarily halted Waymo's expansion pending further review because of objections from various San Francisco city agencies and advocacy groups.

Concerns over the safety of autonomous robotaxis have escalated following notable accidents involving driverless vehicles, including a recent collision with a cyclist by a Waymo car.

However, CPUC has now determined that Waymo is committed to continuously evaluating and enhancing its technology and safety protocols to mitigate risks associated with driverless passenger services in expanded areas. 

In its decision, CPUC dismissed requests from the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) for formal hearings on disputed facts, stating that no significant disputed facts that warranted such proceedings had been identified.

Additionally, CPUC rejected calls to delay the expansion until the resolution of Senate Bill 915 would grant cities more regulatory authority over robotaxis, deeming these issues beyond its current scope. 

While some groups supporting Waymo's expansion highlighted the potential benefits of safety, accessibility, economic and the environment, others, such as the American Council of the Blind, urged CPUC to establish new safety and accessibility standards before approving Waymo's request.

CPUC however, deemed these matters part of broader self-driving vehicle policy discussions and granted Waymo immediate permission to begin its expansion. 

 Source: Newsroom