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A new era in transportation has arrived in Atlanta as Waymo and Uber have partnered to offer autonomous vehicle rides to the public. This collaboration brings Waymo’s advanced autonomous driving technology to Uber’s extensive ride-hailing platform, providing residents with an electric and self-driving transportation option. The initiative aims to create a more affordable, sustainable, and reliable future for transportation by integrating autonomous vehicles alongside traditional drivers.
Key Highlights
- Exclusive Partnership: Atlantans can now be matched with a Waymo autonomous vehicle exclusively through the Uber app.
- Seamless Integration: When ordering an UberX, Comfort, or Comfort Electric, riders may be offered a fully autonomous, all-electric Jaguar I-PACE at no additional cost.
- User Control: Riders have full control to accept or decline the autonomous vehicle option and can manage their trip, including unlocking the doors, entirely through the Uber app.
- Proven Safety: Waymo vehicles have driven tens of millions of fully autonomous miles and data indicates they are helping to reduce traffic injuries in their operational areas.
A New Ride Experience
Starting immediately, Uber riders in Atlanta requesting an UberX, Comfort, or Comfort Electric may be matched with a fully autonomous, all-electric Jaguar I-PACE vehicle. Before the Waymo is dispatched, the user will receive a notification in the Uber app with the option to accept the autonomous ride or switch to a standard vehicle with a driver. This ensures the user is always in control of their experience.
Once a Waymo vehicle arrives, the rider can use their familiar Uber app to unlock the doors, open the trunk, and initiate the trip. For those eager to try the new technology, users can increase their chances of being matched by opting in through the Ride Preferences section in their Uber app settings.
Commitment to Safety and Support
Safety is a foundational element of the partnership. Any autonomous vehicle operating on the Uber network is required to meet the company’s stringent safety guidelines. Waymo’s technology is backed by an extensive record of tens of millions of fully autonomous miles driven on public roads, with data showing that its vehicles contribute to a reduction in traffic injuries where they operate.
Should any assistance be needed during the journey, riders have access to 24/7 customer support. This support can be reached through both the Uber app and the in-car screens within the Waymo vehicle.
Expanding Operations
At launch, the service is available across 65 square miles of Atlanta, covering neighborhoods from Downtown to Buckhead to Capitol View, with plans for future expansion. This launch follows a similar, successful integration in Austin, where Waymo rides are also exclusively available on Uber.
The Austin fleet has grown to 100 Waymo vehicles and continues to expand. Customer feedback from Austin has been overwhelmingly positive, with riders giving their Waymo trips an average rating of 4.9 stars. This partnership marks a significant step toward an increasingly electric and autonomous future for transportation.
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