Uber users in Austin are getting matched with Waymo robotaxis

Uber partners with Waymo to offer robotaxis in Austin ahead of SXSW.

: Uber users in Austin can now choose between a Waymo robotaxi and a human driver, as the 'Waymo on Uber' service launches in time for SXSW. Both ride options are priced equally, with the chance to favor Waymo in app settings. Waymo handles AV testing, while Uber manages maintenance with Avomo. The collaboration reflects Uber's strategy to bolster robotaxi ventures.

Uber and Waymo have announced the launch of the 'Waymo on Uber' robotaxi service in Austin, marking a significant expansion of their partnership just in time for the SXSW festival. This service, which provides Uber riders in Austin with the option to ride in a Waymo-operated autonomous vehicle or a traditional human-driven car, demonstrates both companies' efforts to stay at the forefront of innovation and automation in the transportation sector. Despite being priced equally, users can tweak their app settings to boost the chance of being matched with a Waymo robotaxi.

The expansion into Austin is part of a strategic move that involves the gradual scaling of Waymo's autonomous fleet. Although exact numbers for Austin's fleet weren't disclosed, Waymo and Uber have indicated that their fleet will number in the hundreds across Austin and Atlanta over time. This continued expansion underscores a shared vision for the future of autonomous vehicles in urban areas, marked by automation and innovation.

This partnership also illustrates a notable shift in Uber and Waymo's relationship, which was once characterized by intense rivalry and litigation. After a series of legal entanglements and the eventual divestment of Uber's autonomous vehicle technology service, Uber ATG, to Aurora, the two companies have mended fences and are now collaborating to explore growth opportunities in the burgeoning autonomous vehicle sector.

The operational roles in this partnership have been clearly delineated: Waymo focuses on the technical aspects such as vehicle testing and roadside assistance, while Uber, aided by its partner Avomo, handles fleet management tasks like cleaning, maintenance, and charging. This division of responsibilities highlights how each company contributes its strengths to their shared goal of advancing autonomous vehicle technology.

Uber's broader strategy includes forming alliances with a variety of companies across ride-hailing, delivery, and trucking domains. With partnerships already in place with 14 different autonomous vehicle entities, Uber is committed to solidifying its position in the emerging robotaxi market and pushing the boundaries of mobility solutions globally.

Sources: techcrunch.com, theverge.com, cnet.com

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