California says yes to round-the-clock robotaxis
- August 15, 2023
- Steve Rogerson
California has given the go-ahead for robotaxi operators Cruise and Waymo to operate round the clock.
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has approved resolutions granting additional operating authority for Cruise and Waymo to conduct commercial passenger services using driverless vehicles in San Francisco. The approval includes the ability for both companies to charge fares for rides at any time of day.
Before this, Cruise was authorised to offer fared passenger service in limited areas of San Francisco from 10pm to 6am without a safety driver present, fared passenger service throughout San Francisco at any time with a safety driver present, and non-fared passenger service throughout San Francisco at any time without a safety driver present.
Likewise, Waymo was authorised to offer fared passenger service throughout San Francisco at any time with a safety driver present and non-fared passenger service throughout San Francisco at any time without a safety driver present. Waymo was also authorised to offer non-fared passenger service in parts of Los Angeles and in and around Mountain View with or without a safety driver present.
Additionally, both Cruise and Waymo possess a permit issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that is a prerequisite for autonomous vehicle (AV) deployment and is distinct from the CPUC’s permit, which is an additional requirement for companies that provide transportation services to the public using AVs.
“While we do not yet have the data to judge AVs against the standard human drivers are setting, I do believe in the potential of this technology to increase safety on the roadway,” said CPUC commissioner John Reynolds. “Collaboration between key stakeholders in the industry and the first responder community will be vital in resolving issues as they arise in this innovative, emerging technology space.”
Mariah Ray, director of public affairs at Cruise, added: “Self-driving cars are no longer a hypothetical future, but an active, available service on offer to people who need it. Every day, a growing number of San Francisco residents are using autonomous vehicles to get around the city.”
And Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO of Waymo, said: “This permit marks the true beginning of our commercial operations in San Francisco. We’re incredibly grateful for this vote of confidence from the CPUC, and to the communities and riders who have supported our service. We can’t wait for more San Franciscans to experience the mobility, safety, sustainability and accessibility benefits of full autonomy for themselves, all at the touch of a button.”
