Waymo Gains Approval to Expand Robotaxi Service in Los Angeles

Waymo, the autonomous driving technology company, has been granted permission by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to deploy its robotaxi service in Los Angeles and the San Francisco Peninsula. The decision comes despite previous opposition from local groups and government agencies.

Approval Despite Suspension

The CPUC had previously suspended Waymo’s expansion plans in February for up to 120 days. The suspension followed Waymo’s announcement of a recall for its vehicles after two of its robotaxis collided with a towed pickup truck due to an incorrect prediction by its software. Despite these incidents, the CPUC has now given the green light for Waymo to resume its expansion.

Local Opposition to Expansion

The CPUC’s decision was met with protest letters from a variety of entities, including the City of South San Francisco, the County of San Mateo, the Los Angeles Department of Transportation, the San Francisco County Transportation Authority, and the San Francisco Taxi Workers Alliance. These concerns emerged before the CPUC’s suspension of Waymo’s expansion efforts.

LA Mayor Karen Bass expressed her concerns about autonomous vehicles operating in her city in a letter to the CPUC. She stated that local jurisdictions have had little input in autonomous vehicle deployment and are already experiencing significant disruption.

Incremental Approach Promised

In response to the concerns, Waymo spokesperson Julia Ilina assured the public that the company will take an “incremental approach” to deploying the service in Los Angeles, and it currently has no immediate plans to expand its service in San Francisco. Ilina also emphasized Waymo’s commitment to working closely with city officials, local communities, and partners.

Despite receiving protest letters, the CPUC also received letters of support for Waymo’s expansion from 81 organizations and individuals. These included various groups for the elderly and people with disabilities, local community councils, and transportation advocates.