California gives Waymo the green light to expand robotaxi operations - The Verge

The Nugget

Waymo has been approved to expand its self-driving robotaxi operations on highways in parts of Los Angeles and the Bay Area, driving at speeds of up to 65mph.

Key quotes

"Waymo spokesperson Julia Ilina said the company’s expansion will be 'careful and incremental,' and that it has 'no immediate plans' to extend service to highways."
"CPUC's decision concluded that Waymo has shown attention to continuous evaluation and improvement of its technology and safety practices."
"Groups supporting the expansion highlighted the potential safety, accessibility, economic, and environmental benefits of Waymo’s service."
"The California Public Utilities Commission denied the Los Angeles Department of Transportation's request for evidentiary hearings on disputed facts."
"Concerns about the safety of driverless robotaxis have grown after several high-profile crashes involving autonomous vehicles."

Waymo has received approval to operate its self-driving robotaxis on highways in selected areas of Los Angeles and the Bay Area.
The company's cars will be allowed to drive at speeds of up to 65mph on local roads and highways in these approved areas, after the California regulator's endorsement.

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) put Waymo's expansion plans on hold until June for further review, but eventually granted permission for immediate expansion.
CPUC emphasized that Waymo has demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement in technology and safety practices, despite concerns surrounding the safety of driverless robotaxis due to past high-profile crashes involving autonomous vehicles.

Regulatory challenges were raised by groups like the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) and the American Council of the Blind, citing disputed facts and the need for new safety and accessibility standards.
However, CPUC dismissed these requests, highlighting the benefits of Waymo's service as pointed out by supporting groups, including safety, accessibility, economic, and environmental advantages.

🚗 Waymo approved for robotaxi highway operations at speeds up to 65mph in LA and the Bay Area.
🛣️ CPUC supports Waymo's commitment to safety despite ongoing concerns and recent high-profile autonomous vehicle crashes.

This summary contains AI-generated information and may have important inaccuracies or omissions.