Waymo set to start trials in Chicago and Charlotte

Waymo Expands Robotaxi Operations to New Cities

Image Credits: Smith Collection / Gado / Getty Images

Waymo announced on Wednesday that it is extending its autonomous taxi services to Chicago and Charlotte, marking another step in the company’s efforts to broaden the reach of its self-driving vehicles.

Beginning today, Waymo will initiate manual mapping and gather preliminary data in these cities to prepare for future operations. The company’s typical approach involves several months of manual driving and mapping to familiarize itself with local streets, traffic flows, and unique challenges. Only after this groundwork does Waymo gradually introduce autonomous testing, eventually moving toward fully driverless service.

Challenges and Opportunities in New Markets

Charlotte’s suburban layout and generally mild climate may present a smoother entry point for Waymo’s technology. In contrast, Chicago’s severe winters, congested roads, and urban density will test the adaptability of Waymo’s system. Successfully operating in Chicago would demonstrate the company’s ability to scale its technology nationwide. This expansion also gives Waymo another opportunity to serve a northern city, following New York’s decision to reject a proposal for commercial robotaxi pilots in parts of the state.

Waymo’s Growing Presence

This announcement comes as Waymo begins commercial driverless service in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando, bringing the total number of cities with Waymo operations to ten.

In addition to Chicago and Charlotte, Waymo is actively testing and preparing to launch in other locations, including Denver, London, and Washington, D.C. Earlier this month, the Alphabet subsidiary secured $16 billion in funding to support its international growth plans.