Uber customers in Phoenix can now book a ride in a fully autonomous vehicle such as a Waymo car.
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Uber Partners With Waymo for New Riding Experience
Although Waymo has been around for a while, the partnership with Uber brings it closer to more customers starting in the area of Metro Phoenix. Customers now have an option to literally ride alone in the car using the Uber app by choosing it as an option via the Ride Preferences section of the app.
To book an AV ride, customers who request an UberX, Uber Green, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric can be matched with a Waymo vehicle if the route is part of the company's operating territory. The company recently expanded its route and now includes the Sky Harbor International Airport's 24th St. and 44th St. SkyTrain locations.
Once the Waywo vehicle arrives, the car will be unlocked and start the usual Uber trip. On the other hand, riders are still allowed to accept or decline the Waymo vehicle. Uber assures that it is safe by providing 24/7 access to customer support both in the Uber app and inside the car.
Uber Commits to Zero-Emission Mobility
Uber noted that the partnership is an important step to fulfill its commitment to become a zero-emission mobility platform by 2024. Since Waymo uses an all-electric Jaguar I-PACE, the company is hopeful to bring a positive impact on the environment by cutting gas emissions per passenger and making green transportation more accessible.
"Looking ahead, we expect that the number of human drivers and AVs on the Uber platform will continue to grow, side by side, for quite a long time as we continue to scale a hybrid, global network that combines both," Uber wrote in a statement.
The company is yet to disclose its future plans with Waymo. Moreover, there are no details yet on how many AV cars will be deployed within the Metro Phoenix.
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