Waymo is developing a roomier robotaxi with less-expensive tech

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses Waymo's latest "generation 6" self-driving technology, which is being integrated into Geely Zeekr electric vehicles. The new technology aims to handle a wider range of weather conditions with fewer cameras and sensors, allowing for faster deployment. Waymo is working to scale its existing Waymo One robotaxi service in the U.S., with a $5 billion investment from Alphabet.

🙋 Q&A

[01] Waymo's Generation 6 Self-Driving Technology

1. What are the key features of Waymo's new "generation 6" self-driving technology?

• The new technology is integrated into Geely Zeekr electric vehicles
• It can handle a wider array of weather conditions without requiring as many costly cameras and sensors
• Waymo has reduced the number of cameras from 29 to 13 and lidar sensors from 5 to 4 to lower the cost of each robotaxi

2. How does the new technology compare to Waymo's previous generations?

• Waymo is confident they can bring this generation to market much faster than the prior generation, citing advances in machine learning and semiconductor performance
• The new Zeekr vehicles have a boxier design but more accessible interior features like a low step and higher ceiling with more legroom

3. Where is Waymo testing and validating the new generation 6 technology?

• Waymo is testing the new technology on public roads with professional drivers in the vehicles
• They are also doing testing and validation work in Detroit, Buffalo, New York, and New York to understand performance in different traffic and weather conditions

[02] Waymo's Expansion Plans

1. What are Waymo's plans for scaling its existing Waymo One robotaxi service?

• Waymo is working to scale its service within the Sunbelt cities of San Francisco, Phoenix, Austin, and Los Angeles
• The company currently provides around 50,000 paid driverless trips weekly, primarily in San Francisco and Phoenix
• Waymo has completed more than 2 million trips to date

2. How is Waymo funding its expansion efforts?

• Alphabet, Waymo's parent company, has announced a $5 billion investment in the autonomous vehicle unit
• The capital will be used mostly for scaling, including adding the new Zeekr robotaxis to Waymo's fleet

3. How does Waymo's service compare to other autonomous vehicle efforts in the U.S.?

• Waymo faces little competition in the U.S. for now, as other companies like GM-owned Cruise, Uber, and Ford have experienced setbacks or shut down their driverless efforts
• Tesla has yet to deliver a driverless car but plans to unveil a "dedicated robotaxi" in October