Waymo’s co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana on steering through autonomous car challenges | StrictlyVC LA

Waymo's Robotaxi Service

• Waymo has been operating a robotaxi service in Phoenix since 2017 without human drivers.
• In 2022, Waymo launched its service in San Francisco, offering rides to people on a waitlist.
• Waymo began testing its robotaxis in Los Angeles in October 2022 and has since provided over 15,000 rides.
• Despite vandalism incidents in San Francisco, Waymo remains committed to the city, believing the benefits of its service outweigh the opposition.
• Los Angeles has shown strong demand for Waymo's service, with over 50,000 people signing up for the waitlist and over 15,000 rides given since October.

Safety and Competition

• Cruise's accident served as a reminder of the importance of safety, transparency, and humility in the autonomous vehicle industry.
• Waymo's approach to safety involves deep engagement with regulators, transparency with communities, and continuous improvement.
• Waymo anticipates increased competition in the autonomous vehicle industry due to advancements in AI and machine learning.

Remote Assistance and Future Plans

• Waymo's remote assistance model involves less than one human per vehicle, providing support for specific situations like passenger inquiries or unusual obstacles.
• To reach the next level, Waymo requires a significant amount of capital and may consider an IPO in the future.
• The company's focus remains on integrating its service into people's daily lives, with Los Angeles and Austin identified as areas of excitement and future growth.