Waymo robotaxi rides in California now free due to regulatory delay
Waymo cannot currently charge for rides in its new robotaxis in California due to a regulatory delay. The company is also prevented from expanding its service to new areas.
Waymo, Alphabet's self-driving car subsidiary, is currently offering free rides in its new "Ojai" robotaxis in California due to a delay in regulatory approval. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has not yet granted permission for the company to charge passengers for the new vehicles.
This regulatory holdup also means Waymo cannot expand its driverless ride-hail service into additional areas of Northern and Southern California as planned. The company is continuing to charge for rides in its existing fleet of Jaguar I-Pace robotaxis, which make up the majority of its vehicles.
California has a more stringent approval process for autonomous vehicle operations compared to many other states. Companies require sign-off from both the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for testing and operation, and the CPUC for commercial passenger services before deploying services.
The "Ojai" vehicles, described as pale blue and Chinese-made, began picking up riders last month. Without the CPUC's authorization to charge fares, these rides may continue to be free until at least the end of September, and potentially longer, while Waymo awaits the necessary permits.