Waymo and Uber have announced a new multi-year strategic partnership to make the autonomous Waymo Driver available on the Uber platform.
This integration will be available to the public later this year, starting with a number of Waymo vehicles across its newly expanded operating area in Phoenix, Arizona.
At over 180 square miles, the Waymo operating area in Pheonix is currently the largest fully autonomous service area globally.
With this partnership, Waymo’s autonomous vehicles will be available for both local deliveries and ride-hailing trips on the Uber and Uber Eats apps.
Tekedra Mawakana, Co-CEO of Waymo said:We’re excited to offer another way for people to experience the enjoyable and life-saving benefits of full autonomy. Uber has long been a leader in human-operated ridesharing, and the pairing of our pioneering technology and all-electric fleet with their customer network provides Waymo with an opportunity to reach even more people.
This announcement adds to Uber’s existing partnership with Motional to offer autonomous rides and deliveries in Las Vegas.
The growing number of autonomous services available on its platform reflects Uber’s belief that this technology will be a key component of future transport networks.
Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber said:Uber provides access to a global and reliable marketplace across mobility, delivery, and freight. Fully autonomous driving is quickly becoming part of everyday life, and we’re excited to bring Waymo's incredible technology to the Uber platform.
