Robotaxis score a huge victory in California with approval to operate 24/7

Waymo and Cruise, two leading autonomous vehicle companies, have been granted approval to operate their robotaxi services 24/7 in San Francisco. This ruling came after a six-hour public hearing that saw both support and opposition from residents. The approval is a significant victory for autonomous vehicle operators, who have invested large sums of money into the technology with minimal returns thus far.

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) voted 3-to-1 in favor of allowing Waymo and Cruise to operate their vehicles at any time throughout the city. CPUC Commissioner John Reynolds, a former general counsel at GM-backed Cruise, expressed his enthusiasm for the decision and stated that it is just the beginning of the process of bringing AV transportation services to Californians.

During the hearing, the commissioners addressed concerns raised by San Francisco officials and residents regarding AVs blocking roads, causing traffic congestion, and hindering emergency vehicles. Commissioner Darcie Houck warned that if further incidents occur, the CPUC could limit the number of vehicles allowed on the road or even revoke the companies’ permits.

Currently, Waymo and Cruise provide limited service, but this recent vote gives them full access to the peninsula and allows them to operate similarly to Uber or Lyft by offering rides throughout the city at any time and charging fares. Waymo and Cruise both hailed the decision as a significant milestone for the AV industry and a demonstration of California’s commitment to progress.

The hearing featured a range of voices, including many from the disabled community, who spoke about the pros and cons of autonomous ride-hailing services. Supporters emphasized the potential benefits of increased safety and improved transportation options for the disabled. Opponents, on the other hand, expressed concerns about vehicle malfunctions, overcrowded streets, and the intrusion of big tech companies. Some even likened the situation to the exploitation of San Francisco by powerful technology companies.

Despite the opposition, the majority of speakers at the hearing were against the expansion of AV services. Skepticism towards technology giants and the perceived lack of consideration for the city’s well-being were common themes. Privacy was another point of contention, with opponents fearing that the vehicles would serve as surveillance tools.

However, even within the disabled community, there was no unanimous support for the expansion. Some individuals raised concerns about pedestrian safety and the need for affordable transportation options like public transit. Others worried about the potential loss of jobs for truckers, union members, and ride-share drivers.

San Francisco officials had requested a delay in the vote due to incidents involving autonomous vehicles that caused traffic disruptions and obstructed emergency vehicles. However, the CPUC determined that Waymo and Cruise had fulfilled their obligations under the state’s regulatory framework for testing and commercial operation of autonomous vehicles. The CPUC expects the companies to address concerns by collaborating with first responders, law enforcement, and city officials.

 

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Denial of responsibility! Samachar Central is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.