Waymo Robotaxis Launch in 4 Cities, Now Serving 10 Metro Areas

For the first time ever, a robotaxi company has launched in multiple cities on the same day, and it's bringing us closer to a future where getting around safely gets easier for everyone.

Waymo opened commercial self-driving car service to the public in four major cities at once: Orlando, Florida, and three Texas metros (Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio). The company now operates in 10 cities across the United States, making it the only company successfully running fully autonomous ride-hailing at this scale.

The rollout starts with select riders from tens of thousands who downloaded the Waymo app. The company plans to invite more people gradually to ensure smooth service, with full public access coming later this year.

Waymo co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana shared an ambitious goal: one million rides per day by year's end. The company has already logged over 200 million autonomous miles and aims to expand to more than 20 cities soon.

Safety numbers tell an encouraging story. Data from 127 million miles shows Waymo achieved a ten-fold reduction in serious injury crashes compared to human drivers. For pedestrians, the improvement is even better, with a twelve-fold reduction in injury crashes.

The technology handles each city's unique challenges, from Florida's sudden downpours to Texas's bright midday sun. Riders can use the service to reach popular destinations like Dallas's Bishop Arts District, Houston's Toyota Center, or San Antonio Spurs games.

Houston City Council Member Sallie Alcorn expressed excitement about the launch. "I am a big fan of Waymo and have ridden in them many times on the West Coast," she said. "I'm thrilled that we are now launching limited access public rides here in Houston."

The Ripple Effect

The expansion goes beyond just adding transportation options. Waymo is working closely with local organizations in each new city, including Downtown Dallas Inc., Bike Houston, Vibrant Works, and Lighthouse Central Florida, to ensure the service meets diverse community needs.

This approach builds trust and creates jobs while making cities more accessible. For people who can't drive due to disabilities, age, or other reasons, robotaxis offer new independence. The technology also promises cleaner air and fewer traffic accidents as it scales up.

A future where safer streets and easier mobility reach more Americans every month is rolling closer to reality.