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Waymo Drives Into Canada: Toronto Next Frontier
16 Oct
Summary
- Waymo begins mapping Toronto streets with human drivers.
- Autonomous vehicle testing will occur with safety operators.
- Expansion includes partnerships for fleet management in Toronto.
Alphabet's self-driving unit, Waymo, has received approval to participate in Ontario's automated vehicle pilot program, marking its expansion into Canada. Initially, Waymo's vehicles will be driven manually in Toronto to create detailed maps of the city's street networks.
Following the mapping phase, Waymo will commence testing its autonomous vehicles on public roads, with human safety operators present. The company plans to eventually transition to a fully autonomous robotaxi service, inviting the public to experience rides.
This Canadian venture is part of Waymo's intensified global expansion, which has seen its services grow significantly over the past two years. The company now operates in 15 U.S. cities and is conducting tests in London and Tokyo.
Waymo is adopting a strategy of partnering with third-party companies to manage its growing fleet. In Toronto, the company has established a partnership with Element Fleet Management, anticipating the creation of hundreds of local jobs in fleet maintenance, validation driving, customer service, and operations.
