Uber Users in Austin Now Matched with Waymo Robotaxis: A New Era of Ridesharing

Uber users in Austin can now enjoy a new and innovative choice when hailing a ride: a Waymo robotaxi or a human driver. This exciting development comes as part of the recently launched “Waymo on Uber” service, which represents a significant partnership between Uber and Waymo, enhancing the ride-hailing experience in Austin.

Launching the Waymo on Uber Robotaxi Service

On Tuesday, the collaboration between Uber and Waymo officially took flight in Austin, just in time for the upcoming SXSW festival. This launch signifies the companies’ commitment to integrating autonomous vehicles into urban transportation.

How It Works

Starting today, users of the Uber app may be matched with a Waymo robotaxi when requesting a ride. Here’s what you need to know:

• Both robotaxi and human-driven vehicle options are available to users.
• Pricing for both ride options remains the same.
• To increase the likelihood of being matched with a Waymo robotaxi, users can adjust their preferences in the app’s “ride preferences” section under “settings.”

Expansion Plans for Waymo in Austin

While the exact number of robotaxis in the Austin fleet has not been disclosed, Waymo has announced plans to expand its fleet to hundreds of autonomous vehicles across Austin and Atlanta in the coming years. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to enhance their presence in the autonomous vehicle market.

Evolution of Uber and Waymo’s Partnership

Once fierce competitors, Uber and Waymo have transitioned to a cooperative relationship. Waymo’s autonomous vehicles have been available on the Uber app in Phoenix since October 2023. The partnership has continued to grow with plans for a more exclusive “Waymo on Uber” service, set to launch in Austin and Atlanta by 2025 (with Atlanta yet to debut).

The Operational Framework of the Service

The “Waymo on Uber” service showcases the distinct roles both companies play in the evolving autonomous vehicle industry:

• Waymo: Responsible for vehicle testing, roadside assistance, and rider support.
• Uber: Manages fleet operations, including vehicle cleaning, maintenance, inspections, charging, and depot operations through its partner, Moove Cars, which is rebranding to Avomo.

It’s important to note that Uber previously developed its own autonomous vehicle technology until divesting its Uber ATG business in a complex deal with Aurora in 2020.

Uber’s Strategic Position in the Robotaxi Market

In recent years, Uber has reinforced its position in the emerging robotaxi market by forging partnerships with numerous autonomous vehicle companies. Currently, Uber collaborates with 14 companies that span ride-hailing, delivery, and trucking sectors, some of which are already operating commercially. Notably, in December, Uber launched robotaxi services with WeRide in Abu Dhabi and has established commercial agreements with sidewalk delivery bot companies like Avride, Cartken, and Serve Robotics.

For more information about Uber and Waymo’s partnership, visit Uber’s Newsroom or check out Waymo’s official website.