The city of San Francsico falls under the area many refer to as Silicon Valley. This means many leading tech companies work in and around the San Franciso area. Many companies tend to conduct research in the city, often doing test runs of products in San Francsico, before sending out a product to more major cities, before sending it out nationwide. For example, many apps that are now staples around the world, such as Uber and Airbnb got their starts in San Francisco. Now, one of the biggest products being tested in the city are driverless vehicles. These self-driving cars, also known as autonomous vehicles, are drawing a crowd for themselves in San Francisco. At this point, these vehicles are not only in San Francisco, but it continues to be their main hub drawing much attention.
The leading autonomous vehicle maker right now is Waymo.
Self-driving cars have actually been tested on San Francisco streets since as far back as 2009. However, in the last year they have been commercial driving and have occupied more road space than ever before. Because of their larger presence in the city, many are visiting the city in hopes of catching a ride in one. When the vehicles act in this way, people are referring to them as robotaxis. Tourists from all over hope to experience a robotaxi in San Francisco for a possible once in a lifetime experience.
Other companies on the road, including Cruise and Zoox, are now providing commercial rides.
Waymo, formerly working under Google but now simply under Google’s parent company, Alphabet, is the only autonomous car manufacturer giving rides to the public in San Francisco and anywhere else. You can also catch a ride with them in Phoenix, though many are preferring San Francisco for authenticity.
If you want to pick up a ride from Waymo, you must have the Waymo app. From there, you call a car similar to the way you order an Uber. The car will arrive and then you can be driven by technology to your new location! If you want to ride in a car for your trip to San Francisco, join the waitlist now to be approved as a passenger!