Via and Waymo have announced a new, strategic partnership that will allow government agencies currently leveraging Via’s software to introduce Waymo’s autonomous ride-hailing service directly into their local public transit networks.
The first city set to introduce the platform is Chandler, Arizona, who will incorporate Waymo’s service into its Chandler Flex microtransit service.
The deployment will see Via’s routing technology incorporate Waymo’s vehicles into the Chandler Flex service’s existing fleet, utilising Via’s Scheduling Engine to provide services matched to passenger needs.
Daniel Ramot, Via’s co-founder and CEO, said:Public transit riders and the government agencies who serve them are too often the last to have access to cutting-edge technology.
We’re delighted that this partnership with Waymo paves the path for AVs to become accessible to millions of global public transit riders, enhancing mobility, lowering operating costs, and improving safety outcomes.
The use of Via’s operating software will allow the city of Chandler to monitor service performance in real time, as well as meet Federal funding, compliance and accessibility reporting requirements.
Waymo’s Director of U.S. State & Local Public Policy, Annabel Chang, said:Waymo is committed to expanding mobility access in our markets, and our partnership with Via enables us to contribute to a shared transportation program that is already helping Arizonans travel more conveniently and affordably.
We’re grateful to play a part in reimagining transportation systems in ways that are more sustainable and accessible to all.
