Today, Explained RoboCab
Aug 17, 2023
Liz Lindqwister, a data journalist at the San Francisco Standard, shares her experience of the public's mixed reactions to robo-taxis in San Francisco—some people even flip her off! Andrew Hawkins, transportation editor at The Verge, discusses the expansion of these driverless vehicles, weighing the benefits of safety against concerns about congestion and job loss. They also explore the broader adoption of robo-taxis in major U.S. cities and the nuanced challenges of navigating regulatory landscapes, highlighting the complex future of transportation.
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Robotaxis in SF
- Robotaxis are common in San Francisco, used even for casual outings.
- Liz Lindqwister has ridden in them to get drinks with friends, comparing the experience to Uber or Lyft.
Robotaxi Experience
- Riding a Waymo robotaxi feels luxurious, like a Jaguar without a driver.
- The experience is surreal, with the wheel and pedals moving autonomously.
CPUC Vote Impact
- The California Public Utilities Commission's vote legalized robotaxi expansion and fare charging.
- This decision significantly changes the landscape for companies like Waymo and Cruise.