Waymo has announced plans to expand its autonomous ride-hailing service to three new US cities in 2026: Las Vegas, Detroit and San Diego.
This marks the next phase of Waymo’s commercial deployment, building on its existing operations in cities such as Phoenix, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
In Las Vegas, the company will introduce its fully autonomous vehicles to both residents and the city’s more than 40 million annual visitors. Waymo has conducted testing in Las Vegas over several years and states that the Waymo Driver has adapted well to the city’s road network.
With this launch, the company aims to improve transport reliability and reduce collisions, highlighting that Nevada ranks as the sixth most dangerous US state for drivers, with Las Vegas accounting for 43% of its annual crashes.
Waymo plans to serve key destinations, including the Strip, with longer-term ambitions to operate to and from Harry Reid International Airport.
Mayor Shelley Berkley said:Las Vegas has a proud, proven history of setting global standards for unforgettable experiences and forward-thinking innovation. The introduction of Waymo and its autonomous driving technology is not a science experiment, but rather a proven, safe, new alternative designed to help our residents and the millions of visitors who come to our city get around—from the Strip and beyond. We are committed to ensuring this technology is adopted responsibly, and securing Las Vegas’s place as a leader in the future of urban mobility.
In Detroit, Waymo’s arrival has particular significance given the city’s deep automotive heritage. The company has maintained an engineering presence in nearby Novi for several years and has carried out testing in Michigan to refine its performance in winter conditions.
Testing will continue this winter as the firm prepares its sixth-generation Waymo Driver for service.
Andrea Schotthoefer, President of the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan said:For many people living with epilepsy, transportation is a significant barrier. The Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan celebrates organisations like Waymo, which are leading the way in providing accessible and safe transportation solutions. Their efforts show what’s possible and inspire collective action toward a future where transportation barriers no longer stand in the way of opportunity and inclusion.
Meanwhile, in San Diego, Waymo intends to introduce its service next year, having already conducted mapping and preliminary trials in the city earlier in 2025. The company is working with local authorities and first responders to ensure a smooth rollout and is seeking to expand its operational permits before launch.
Mayor Todd Gloria said:By welcoming innovative and promising technologies like Waymo’s autonomous vehicle service, we’re exploring how to make transportation more accessible, more sustainable, and more connected for everyone in our community.
With these three additions, Waymo continues to expand its footprint in the United States, focusing on cities with strong tourism sectors, established transport networks, and a commitment to adopting new mobility technologies.
