Fully Autonomous Rides
All eyes are on Los Angeles to see how the new proposed driverless taxi system turns out. California state regulators have decided to allow the Alphabet-owned robotaxi service called Waymo One to operate in California. The Alphabet company is owned by their parent company, Google. They’ll begin in Los Angeles with the possibility of eventually extending services across California.
Testing Concerns
Since Los Angeles is the second biggest city in the United States, transportation departments from around the country will be closely watching this latest test. The driverless car service has been tested in San Francisco to mixed public opinion. While these driverless cars have become a common sight in the Bay Area, many have expressed frustrations with the issues still being sorted out, such as cars coming to a sudden stop and creating traffic jams. These safety concerns have some local residents and even L.A. County officials speaking out about the new expansion.
Positive Possibilities
However, there are many who embrace the new robotaxi service saying that it will help increase transportation options in a city that can be notoriously difficult to navigate. Several disability advocacy groups have rightly pointed out that the new service can help open up even more possibilities for freedom of movement for those that need more support and aid when it comes to transportation. The new service could help many live a more independent life. While a start time for the new system has not yet been announced, it’s likely it could start in a few months’ time.
Read more about the new robotaxi service on Waymo’s website here.