Waymo's Latest Robotaxis Hit Los Angeles Streets, Sparking Public Reaction














The Future of Urban Transit: Waymo's Bold Move in Los Angeles
Unveiling the Latest Waymo Vehicle in the City of Angels
A recent viral social media post captured a glimpse of a cutting-edge Waymo vehicle navigating the bustling streets of Los Angeles. This observation, shared by a TikTok user, highlighted the sleek aesthetics of the new autonomous model, distinguishing it from earlier iterations of robotaxis.
Waymo's Vision for Autonomous Mobility
Waymo is a leading entity in self-driving technology, spearheading Waymo One, an innovative ride-hailing platform that relies entirely on autonomous vehicles, eliminating the need for human drivers. The company's core objective is to enhance transportation safety, accessibility, and sustainability through its pioneering driverless solutions.
The New Addition to Waymo's Fleet: The Zeekr RT Minivan
Indeed, Waymo's fleet has welcomed a significant new member: the Zeekr RT minivan. This vehicle, reportedly the one observed in the viral clip, represents the inaugural entry of a Chinese automotive brand, Zeekr, into the American market. Although these minivans have been sighted in Los Angeles for activities like charging and maintenance, they are not yet available for public rides through the Waymo One application.
Waymo's Presence and Expansion in Los Angeles
Waymo's comprehensive robotaxi service officially commenced operations in Los Angeles in November 2024, gradually extending its reach to cover a significant portion of Los Angeles County, including areas like Santa Monica and downtown. This full-scale launch followed over a year of meticulous testing and phased rollouts, reflecting Waymo's commitment to a safe and systematic integration into the city's transport network.
Public Reception and Challenges in Los Angeles
With approximately one hundred Waymo taxis currently deployed across an 80-square-mile zone in Los Angeles, the service has begun exploring operations on freeways. However, this expansion has been met with mixed reactions from residents, some of whom have voiced concerns regarding the vehicles' tendency to occupy parking spaces for extended periods. Waymo asserts that this behavior is a deliberate strategy to optimize service efficiency by positioning vehicles in high-demand areas while conserving energy and alleviating traffic congestion.