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Waymo has announced its next location will be Miami with a phased plan to launch an autonomous service within two years.
Human drivers will be inside the vehicle next year, ahead of the full robotaxi rollout in 2026, delivered via the Waymo app.
The Alphabet-owned company is targeting growth in the Sunshine State as a sign of its growing confidence that it is ready for the challenges that come in such an urban environment with varying weather conditions like Miami.
That was the location for the firm’s first test stages five years ago and the improvements secured since have equipped the vehicles for the harsh, wet conditions that they will often be exposed to.
“We deepened our learning and understanding of the Waymo Driver’s performance in adverse weather conditions,” said a company spokesperson.
Waymo’s advances have also been backed by the financial support of its Google-parent owner.
Earlier this year, Alphabet’s chief financial officer confirmed the tech heavyweight would be plowing a further $5 billion into its subsidiary.
“This new round of funding, which is consistent with recent annual investment levels, will enable Waymo to continue to build the world’s leading autonomous driving technology company,” said Ruth Porat.
Miami, are you ready? 🌴 Through our fleet partnership with @Moove_io we'll work to open our doors to Miami riders in 2026, offering a safe and accessible EV transportation option. https://t.co/jisF6xJz5d pic.twitter.com/gS7jnUHzo4
— Waymo (@Waymo) December 5, 2024
Moove enters the U.S. market as part of Miami’s expansion
Waymo will deploy its all-electric Jaguar I-PACE next year, with the launch going beyond the city limits of Miami and into sections of the wider metropolitan area which has an overall population of more than 6 million people.
The autonomous driving tech company, formerly known as the Google Self-Driving Car Project, will collaborate with African mobility startup Moove as part of the expansion plans for Miami, beginning in Phoenix.
Under the partnership, Moove will be responsible for fleet operations, facilities, and charging, in its initial foray into the U.S. market.
“Together, we will provide safe, seamless trips for riders, and scale faster and more cost-effectively over time, with safety continuing to lead the way,” said Ryan McNamara, Vice President of Operations at Waymo.
Image credit: Via Jon Fingas
