Waymo confirms new location for robotaxi expansion

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?