The California Public Utilities Commission granted Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., a permit to participate in its driverless pilot program, the CPUC announced Friday.
The company currently holds an autonomous testing vehicle permit from the the DMV. This permit is a prerequisite for all AV testing and is separate and distinct from the CPUC's permit, which is an additional requirement for carriers who transport members of the public in AVs. Cruise, Waymo want to keep data on their robotaxis confidential The autonomous vehicle companies agree: Regulators are asking for too much information
Waymo has also been approved to test its fleet of AVs in Los Angeles as part of an expansion into the city. The company has also been working to expand its fully driverless robotaxi services in Phoenix. It features a long wheelbase, power sliding doors and a flat floor with a low step-in height, which makes entering and exiting the vehicle easier for passengers. The robotaxi also comes with headroom and fully adjustable seats. Other features include built-in chargers for cell phones and other electronic devices, as well as infotainment screens for front and rear passengers.
Also of note, why San Francisco is pushing for a 20mph speed limit.