Waymo in LA

Question

I’ve been hearing about this service. Has anyone used it? Any feedback for visitors and locals?

Answer

Waymo in Los Angeles is a self-driving ride-hailing service operated by Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet. It has gradually expanded in the LA area, primarily serving certain neighborhoods and key corridors, with plans to grow coverage. The service is generally available via a mobile app, similar to Uber or Lyft, but with fully autonomous vehicles or sometimes with a safety driver on board depending on the vehicle and location.

For visitors and locals, the experience is a bit different than traditional rideshares:

Convenience: If your destination is within the Waymo service zone, you can request a ride via the app just like any other ride-hailing service. The app will provide estimated pickup times and pricing.
Autonomous Experience: Some users report that riding in a self-driving vehicle can be surprisingly smooth, with precise lane changes and cautious driving. It’s a novel experience, particularly for visitors interested in technology.
Limitations: Coverage is still limited to certain neighborhoods, so it may not be useful for all parts of LA, especially for long trips across the city. Also, wait times may be longer than Uber or Lyft depending on demand.
Pricing: Generally comparable to other ride-hailing options, though occasionally slightly higher due to the novelty and operational costs of autonomous vehicles.

Feedback from locals and visitors suggests:

Rides are generally reliable, but app navigation can be tricky for first-time users.
The autonomous experience is fascinating for tech enthusiasts, but some passengers may feel uneasy being without a human driver.
For short trips within the service area, it can be an interesting and safe alternative to traditional taxis or rideshares.

Tips for visitors:

Check coverage areas carefully before relying on Waymo for airport or long-distance trips.
Be prepared to potentially switch to a traditional rideshare if your destination is outside the Waymo zone.
If you’re curious about the autonomous experience itself, booking a short trip within the city can be a fun way to try it.

Overall, Waymo in LA is a reliable, safe, and interesting service within its operational zones. It’s best used for short trips in covered neighborhoods rather than as a primary transport option across the entire city.

Waymo in LA

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