Waymo Unveils Advanced Self-Driving Tech with Enhanced Sensors and Accessibility in New Electric Fleet
August 20, 2024This 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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Sources
CNET • Aug 19, 2024
Waymo's Latest Robotaxi Is Here, Ready to Tackle Extreme WeatherThe Verge • Aug 19, 2024
Waymo’s new robotaxi will feature fewer sensors to help lower costsCNBC • Aug 19, 2024
Waymo is developing a roomier robotaxi with less-expensive tech