Self-driving car technology maker Waymo and Uber announced Tuesday (23) a partnership for the Uber platform to offer passengers the ability to travel in Waymo self-driving cars. The novelty will be launched first in Arizona, then in Phoenix, in the United States, and Americans in this region will be able to choose unmanned vehicles for travel.

Waymo said in a press release that the “multi-year partnership” could be used for Uber Eats’ road trips and delivery services. Waymo co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana said that with technologies from both companies, it will be possible to accelerate fully autonomous driving around the world. “We are pleased to offer people another way to experience the pleasant and convenient benefits of full autonomy. Uber has long been a leader in road travel, and the combination of our cutting-edge technology and all-electric fleet with a customer network gives Waymo the opportunity to reach even more people.“.

Uber platform CEO Dara Khosrowshahi says that Autonomous driving becomes part of people’s daily lives. “The Uber app provides access to a global and trusted mobility, delivery and delivery marketplace. Fully autonomous driving is fast becoming part of everyday life, and we’re excited to bring Waymo’s amazing technology to the Uber platform.“.

Uber without drivers in the future?

The idea of ​​being able to travel in autonomous vehicles via Uber is very interesting. However, at the same time, this novelty raises questions about the future of drivers within the platform. Thanks to the convenience of sharing apps like Uber, many people use the platform as their only job to support their families.

The emergence of autonomous cars on the platform should not please drivers who could lose their jobs. It’s hard to imagine a company moving away from human drivers, but with the development of autonomous driving, many people could be out of work, which will certainly cause dissatisfaction among drivers.

Uber offers teens the option to travel alone
The new feature will allow young people between the ages of 13 and 17 to use transport services without adult supervision.

Source: BGR

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