Waymo Unveils Advanced Self-Driving Tech with Enhanced Sensors and Accessibility in New Electric Fleet

August 20, 2024
Waymo Unveils Advanced Self-Driving Tech with Enhanced Sensors and Accessibility in New Electric Fleet
  • This sixth-generation technology is integrated into Geely Zeekr electric vehicles, marking a significant step in Waymo's autonomous vehicle development.

  • The new Zeekr-built fleet is designed with improved accessibility features, including a lower step and higher ceiling for enhanced legroom.

  • Waymo has unveiled its sixth generation of self-driving technology, which enhances resolution, range, and compute power for its autonomous vehicles.

  • The new Driver system features a more efficient sensor setup, reducing the number of onboard cameras from 29 to 13 and LiDAR sensors from five to four.

  • The updated sensor suite includes 13 cameras, 4 LiDAR units, and 6 radar systems, providing extensive coverage while reducing production costs.

  • Waymo's new technology features smarter sensors that improve navigation in extreme weather conditions such as heat, fog, rain, and hail.

  • Waymo's vice president of engineering expressed confidence in bringing the new generation to market more quickly due to advancements in machine learning.

  • The sixth-generation vehicles are currently being tested on public roads with professional drivers in various locations to assess performance.

  • Waymo is currently providing around 50,000 paid driverless trips per week, with over 2 million trips completed to date.

  • To support scaling efforts, Alphabet announced a $5 billion investment in Waymo, which will help expand its fleet of robotaxis.

  • Concerns have arisen regarding potential new tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, which could impact costs for Waymo's robotaxi service.

  • Despite the convenience of its service, Waymo's autonomous vehicles have faced challenges, including involvement in high-profile accidents earlier this year.

Summary based on 4 sources


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