Waymo expands autonomous ride-hailing to Las Vegas, Detroit, San Diego

Published 03/11/2025, 17:30
© Reuters

Investing.com -- Waymo announced plans to launch its autonomous ride-hailing service in three new cities: Las Vegas, Detroit, and San Diego.

The Alphabet-owned self-driving technology company will begin operations in Las Vegas next summer, targeting both the city’s 40+ million annual visitors and local residents. Waymo noted that Nevada ranks as the sixth most dangerous state to drive, with Las Vegas accounting for 43% of the state’s collisions yearly.

"Las Vegas has a proud, proven history of setting global standards for unforgettable experiences and forward-thinking innovation," said Mayor Shelley Berkely. "The introduction of Waymo and its autonomous driving technology is not a science experiment, but rather a proven, safe, new alternative designed to help our residents and the millions of visitors."

In Detroit, Waymo will build on its existing presence in Novi, Michigan, where it has maintained an engineering team for years. The company has been testing its vehicles in winter conditions, including in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, to develop capabilities for navigating snow and ice.

Andrea Schotthoefer, President of the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan, praised the expansion, saying: "For many people living with epilepsy, transportation is a significant barrier. The Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan celebrates organizations like Waymo, which are leading the way in providing accessible and safe transportation solutions."

San Diego will also see Waymo’s service launch next year. The company has already conducted preliminary testing in the California city and is working to expand its deployment permits while training first responders and building community relationships.

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria supported the move, stating: "By welcoming innovative and promising technologies like Waymo’s autonomous vehicle service, we’re exploring how to make transportation more accessible, more sustainable, and more connected for everyone in our community."

Waymo currently operates in five U.S. cities and claims its autonomous driving system is five times safer than human drivers.

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