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Waymo has expanded its autonomous ride-hail service in Metro Phoenix, adding 90 square miles to its coverage area. This expansion brings the total service area to 315 square miles, making it the largest in the United States. The new areas include parts of North Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Mesa, enhancing access to popular destinations and resorts.
Key Highlights:
- Expansion Details: The expanded service area now covers 315 square miles, extending into North Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Mesa.
- New Destinations: Riders can now reach Desert Ridge in North Phoenix, iconic golf courses like TPC Scottsdale, and attractions in downtown Mesa.
- Airport Access: Waymo employees have 24/7 access to curbside pickup and drop-off at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, with plans to extend this service to the public.
- Tribal Land Operations: Waymo now operates on tribal land in partnership with the Salt River Pima–Maricopa Indian Community, serving the Talking Stick Entertainment District.
- Enhanced User Experience: Waymo continues to refine the in-car experience with personalized audio options, improved in-car screens, and a ‘Share Trip’ feature for safety.
Expansion Benefits
Waymo’s expansion into North Phoenix includes Desert Ridge, a popular area known for its retail and music scene. Tourists and golf enthusiasts can now take Waymo rides to and from Scottsdale’s resorts and golf courses, such as TPC Scottsdale. The service also reaches more of downtown Mesa, including the Mesa Arts Center and Pioneer Park.
Saswat Panigrahi, Waymo’s Chief Product Officer, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for serving more areas in Phoenix. “Metro Phoenix holds a special place in Waymo’s history and our hearts,” Panigrahi said. “It’s a privilege to continue serving Phoenicians and visitors alike.”
Airport and Tribal Land Services
Waymo has introduced 24/7 curbside terminal pickup and drop-off for employees at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, with plans to offer this to public riders soon. Currently, Waymo One riders can access airport terminals from 10 pm to 6 am and use Sky Train® Stations at all hours. This service is a result of a strong partnership with the City of Phoenix and Sky Harbor.
Additionally, Waymo’s partnership with the Salt River Pima–Maricopa Indian Community marks a significant milestone. Waymo vehicles now operate on tribal land, allowing riders to access the Talking Stick Entertainment District, including the Talking Stick Resort and Salt River Fields.
Martin Harvier, SRPMIC President, highlighted the partnership’s importance, stating, “This collaboration marks a significant step forward in our commitment to innovation and sustainable solutions.”
Improving the Rider Experience
Waymo is committed to enhancing the in-car experience. The nearly silent, all-electric vehicles now offer personalized audio experiences, including ambient music options. Over half of Waymo One riders use the in-car music features, which have been upgraded with new iHeartRadio stations tailored to individual preferences.
Re-designed in-car screens now display contextual details like stop signs and objects shown through lidar point clouds, providing riders with a clearer understanding of their surroundings. Additionally, the ‘Share Trip’ feature allows riders to keep friends and family informed of their whereabouts via the Waymo app.
Waymo’s continuous improvements and expanded service areas ensure a more comfortable and personalized travel experience for riders. The company remains excited about the future of autonomous driving and looks forward to offering more rides in more places soon.
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