Uber and Waymo expand autonomous ride-hailing to Austin and Atlanta

Image credit: Uber

Uber and Waymo have announced plans to expand their existing partnership, launching autonomous ride-hailing services in Austin and Atlanta by early 2025.

The collaboration will make Waymo's fully autonomous, electric Jaguar I-PACE vehicles available through the Uber app.

Initially, Uber will manage a fleet of these vehicles, which is expected to grow to hundreds over time. Customers using UberX, Uber Green, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric services in these cities may soon be matched with a Waymo vehicle for qualifying journeys.

As part of the agreement, Uber will handle fleet management services, including cleaning, repairs, and depot operations. Waymo will maintain control over the technical aspects, such as vehicle testing, operation, and roadside assistance.

Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, said: “We’re thrilled to build on our successful partnership with Waymo, which has already powered fully autonomous trips for tens of thousands of riders in Phoenix.

“Soon, riders in Austin and Atlanta will be able to experience that same mobility magic, through a new fleet of dedicated autonomous Waymo vehicles, available only on Uber.”

Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO, Waymo, said: “Waymo’s mission is to be the world’s most trusted driver, and we’re excited to launch this expanded network and operations partnership with Uber in Austin and Atlanta to bring the benefits of fully autonomous driving to more riders.

“We’ve been delighted at the positive feedback from our Waymo One riders to date, and we can’t wait to bring the comfort, convenience, and safety of the Waymo Driver to these cities in partnership with Uber.”