Big Technology Podcast Waymo's Co-CEO on Its New Uber Partnership, Safety, and Driverless Trucking — With Tekedra Mawakana
Nov 1, 2023
Tekedra Mawakana, Co-CEO of Waymo and a trailblazer in autonomous driving, shares insights on the company's exciting partnership with Uber, enabling ride-hailing services through driverless cars. She addresses critical safety concerns surrounding autonomous vehicles and the need for public trust. The discussion also touches on innovative applications like food delivery, the complexities of driverless trucking, and Waymo's vision within the broader Google ecosystem. Mawakana highlights the balance between technological advancement and societal acceptance as they navigate the future of mobility.
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Public Perception of AV Safety
- The public reacts negatively to autonomous vehicle incidents due to unfamiliarity with the technology.
- This hypersensitivity arises from complacency with human-caused accidents.
Man vs. Machine
- Alex Kantrowitz describes his experience battling robots, including a DoorDash robot and a football tackling dummy.
- This anecdote highlights the human vs. robot dynamic and public apprehension towards automation.
Experience Shifts Perception
- People become more receptive to autonomous vehicles after experiencing a ride.
- The comfort and novelty of a driverless experience can shift initial skepticism.