Waymo’s co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana on steering through autonomous car challenges | StrictlyVC LA

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Waymo's Robotaxi Service

Waymo has been operating a robotaxi service in Phoenix since 2017 without human drivers.
In 2022, Waymo launched its service in San Francisco, offering rides to people on a waitlist.
Waymo began testing its robotaxis in Los Angeles in October 2022 and has since provided over 15,000 rides.
Despite vandalism incidents in San Francisco, Waymo remains committed to the city, believing the benefits of its service outweigh the opposition.
Los Angeles has shown strong demand for Waymo's service, with over 50,000 people signing up for the waitlist and over 15,000 rides given since October.

Cruise's accident served as a reminder of the importance of safety, transparency, and humility in the autonomous vehicle industry.
Waymo's approach to safety involves deep engagement with regulators, transparency with communities, and continuous improvement.
Waymo anticipates increased competition in the autonomous vehicle industry due to advancements in AI and machine learning.

Waymo's remote assistance model involves less than one human per vehicle, providing support for specific situations like passenger inquiries or unusual obstacles.
To reach the next level, Waymo requires a significant amount of capital and may consider an IPO in the future.
The company's focus remains on integrating its service into people's daily lives, with Los Angeles and Austin identified as areas of excitement and future growth.