Uber, Waymo Launch Driverless Rides in Austin

Uber has partnered with Waymo to introduce autonomous ride-hailing services in Austin, Texas, allowing customers to book driverless rides via the Uber app. The service features Waymo's electric Jaguar I-Pace vehicles and is priced the same as traditional Uber rides, with an option to opt for a human driver. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to roll out autonomous taxis in more cities, with Atlanta as the next target. Waymo has claimed its self-driving technology is safer than human driving, having logged millions of miles without significant incidents. The launch in Austin coincides with the SXSW festival, providing an opportunity for extensive exposure. This collaboration between Uber and Waymo marks a significant step in the commercialization of autonomous vehicles, with both companies managing different aspects of the service, such as fleet maintenance and ride operations.