The Brian Lehrer Show Driverless Cars in NYC?
Aug 27, 2025
Stephen Nessen, a transportation reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, discusses the groundbreaking pilot program for Waymo's driverless cars in Manhattan and Brooklyn. He explores the potential impacts on traditional taxi drivers and rideshare services, sparking concerns over job security. Personal stories reveal how these vehicles offer comfort and hope, especially for individuals with disabilities. The conversation also delves into safety and regulatory issues, emphasizing the ethical dilemmas surrounding accountability in the operation of autonomous vehicles in dense urban environments.
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Pilot Approved For Manhattan And Downtown Brooklyn
- The pilot approval was announced as Waymo testing driverless cars in Manhattan and downtown Brooklyn.
- The segment frames the discussion around impacts on taxi and rideshare drivers and street safety.
Waymo's Goal: Driverless Taxis And Deliveries
- Waymo aims to operate as a fully autonomous taxi service and also experiments with autonomous deliveries.
- The company argues its vehicles are safer than human drivers and can reduce labor costs for operators.
Eight Cars Testing With Safety Drivers
- There are already eight Waymo vehicles in NYC practicing on streets with a human safety operator in the driver's seat.
- They are not picking up passengers and the pilot permit runs through the end of September with possible renewal.