Uber And Waymo Introduce Autonomous Rides In Austin: Here's How It Works

Alphabet Inc GOOG GOOGL subsidiary Waymo and Uber Technologies Inc. UBER have partnered to launch fully autonomous rides in Austin, Texas.

Starting today, Uber app users can be paired with Waymo’s all-electric, self-driving Jaguar I-PACE vehicles.

Austin residents can now request a Waymo ride through the Uber app at no additional charge. When booking an UberX, Uber Green, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric ride, passengers can choose a fully autonomous vehicle.

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If a Waymo car is nearby, they’ll be matched with the option to either accept the autonomous vehicle or select a traditional ride. The service spans 37 square miles of Austin, covering popular areas like Hyde Park, Downtown, and Montopolis.

When the Waymo vehicle arrives, passengers can unlock the car, open the trunk, and begin their journey, all through the Uber app they’re accustomed to.

Should they require any help, 24/7 customer support will be available, both through the Uber app and within the Waymo vehicle itself.

Users who are especially keen on experiencing a Waymo ride can boost their chances by selecting the option in the Ride Preferences section of the Uber app.

With expansion plans underway, the next city on Waymo’s list is Atlanta, where employees have already begun taking fully autonomous trips, paving the way for the public rollout.

Price Action: UBER shares are trading lower by 2.66% at $72.46 at last check Tuesday.

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