Waymo opens robotaxi service in Las Vegas
Waymo has launched its public robotaxi service in Las Vegas, inviting public riders on a rolling basis after receiving final approval from Nevada transportation regulators. This marks Waymo's 15th market, starting with dozens of Ojai minivan robotaxis serving a specific area with plans for future expansion.
Why it matters
This expansion signifies a major step in the commercialization of autonomous vehicle technology, intensifying competition in the robotaxi market and potentially transforming urban transportation in major US cities.
Waymo has begun to open up its robotaxi service to the public in Las Vegas, just a few weeks after receiving final approval from Nevada transportation regulators.
The Alphabet-owned company said Monday it will invite public riders on a rolling basis, following a robotaxi launch playbook it has followed in 14 other cities.
Waymo is starting with “dozens” of its new Ojai minivan robotaxis, which will serve an area of Las Vegas that includes the Strip south of Highway 589 and into Boulder Junction, according to a spokesperson. Waymo’s fleet and service area will eventually scale. For now, members of the public will have to request an invite and hope to receive an access code. Typically, Waymo opens the service up to everyone within a month or two of its official launch.
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