Cruise and Waymo have been given the green light to expand their self-driving taxi services in San Francisco following a crucial decision by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
The CPUC voted 3-1 in favor of the expansions, which will allow Cruise and Waymo to operate their vehicles 24 hours a day, 7 days a week throughout the city. The expansions are subject to certain conditions, such as a requirement that the companies have a safety driver present in the vehicles at all times.
The decision is a major victory for the autonomous vehicle industry, which has been seeking regulatory approval to expand its operations in San Francisco. The city is seen as a key market for self-driving cars, due to its dense population and challenging traffic conditions.
Cruise and Waymo have been testing self-driving cars in San Francisco for several years. Cruise began offering a limited commercial service in the city in June 2022, while Waymo launched its own commercial service in December 2022.
Most city agencies agreed that the technology has a place in San Francisco, citing its potential environmental and safety benefits. The decision to allow Cruise and Waymo to expand their robotaxi service in San Francisco without restrictions will provide more transportation options for residents and visitors alike.
The expanded services from Cruise and Waymo could offer a new transportation option for residents and visitors of San Francisco. The vehicles could help to reduce traffic congestion and pollution, and they could also provide a safe and reliable way for people to get around the city.
