In a significant development for the autonomous vehicle industry, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has granted approval for Waymo and Cruise, two leading robotaxi providers, to operate their driverless cars 24/7 within the city. The decision follows a comprehensive six-hour public meeting where both proponents and critics of robotaxis shared their perspectives.
The debate surrounding the deployment of autonomous vehicles has been marked by concerns over safety and potential benefits. Critics of Cruise and Waymo’s robotaxis highlighted incidents involving vehicle malfunctions and breakdowns, often at busy intersections. Conversely, proponents of the technology emphasized the potential for enhanced safety compared to human drivers and the accessibility benefits for disabled passengers.
We know demand will be high as more riders get access to ride across the city, but we want to ensure we provide a reliable service for everyone so we’ll be welcoming new riders incrementally. Thanks to our riders, community advocates, and SF residents who shared their support!
— Waymo (@Waymo) August 11, 2023
The pivotal 3-1 vote by the CPUC ushers in a new era of autonomous transportation in San Francisco. The approved vehicles will function similarly to popular ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, with the freedom to navigate the city at any time of day. Additionally, both Waymo and Cruise will have the authority to levy charges for their services.
CPUC Commissioner John Reynolds underscored the decision’s significance, viewing it as a foundational step towards integrating autonomous driving technology into mainstream transportation. “Today marks the first of many strides towards bringing autonomous vehicle transportation services to Californians,” Commissioner Reynolds remarked.
Leaders from both Waymo and Cruise expressed their appreciation for the CPUC’s approval. Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO of Waymo, characterized the decision as a transformative moment for autonomous vehicles. Mawakana stated, “This permit marks the true initiation of our commercial operations in San Francisco. We are deeply grateful for the CPUC’s vote of confidence, as well as the unwavering support from our riders and communities. We eagerly anticipate introducing more San Franciscans to the benefits of full autonomy, promoting mobility, safety, sustainability, and accessibility at the tap of a button.”
Thrilled to announce that the California Public Utilities Commission just approved @Cruise for fared operation 24/7 across all of San Francisco!
It’s a huge milestone for the AV industry, but even more importantly a signal to the country that CA prioritizes progress over our…
— Kyle Vogt (@kvogt) August 11, 2023
Cruise CEO Kyle Vogt echoed this sentiment, viewing the CPUC’s decision as a significant milestone for the autonomous vehicle sector and a signal of California’s commitment to progress. Vogt expressed, “This marks not only a huge step for the AV industry, but also a statement that California prioritizes advancement over the existing status quo. We share the CPUC’s dedication to delivering safer, cleaner, and more accessible transportation options. We remain resolute in our collaboration with regulators to advance towards this pivotal objective. Let’s Cruise!”
This decision by the CPUC opens a new chapter in the ongoing evolution of autonomous transportation, setting the stage for expanded operations by Waymo and Cruise in the vibrant city of San Francisco.
