What is Waymo's new art program?

Waymo has commissioned local artists to design unique 'wraps' for its self-driving cars to add personality and approachability.

Why is Waymo using art on its cars?

The art aims to make Waymo's autonomous vehicles seem less intimidating and more friendly to passengers and the public.

Which cities feature Waymo's artist-wrapped cars?

Waymo's artist-wrapped cars are currently operating in San Francisco, Phoenix, and Los Angeles.

Home / Technology / Waymo Cars Get a Street Art Makeover

Waymo Cars Get a Street Art Makeover

9 Dec

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Summary

Waymo is wrapping self-driving cars in art from local artists.
The art aims to make intimidating autonomous vehicles more approachable.
The program aims to add personality and local flair to Waymo's fleet.

Waymo is revitalizing its fleet of self-driving vehicles by commissioning local artists to create distinctive "car wraps." This initiative aims to imbue Waymo's approximately 2,500 cars, operating in cities like San Francisco, Phoenix, and Los Angeles, with personality and a local artistic touch. The program intends to make the technologically advanced, and potentially intimidating, autonomous cars more approachable and visually appealing.

The collaboration with artists seeks to humanize the robotic nature of self-driving technology, drawing parallels to how food delivery bots might have faces or names. This artistic approach serves as a way to reassure the public about new technologies, much like cheerful illustrations on WWII bomber planes. It helps to counter the narrative of large, impersonal tech companies by adding a sense of quirky humanity and creative expression.

This program is not just about aesthetics; it's a strategic move to enhance public perception of autonomous vehicles. By partnering with artists, Waymo is leveraging creativity to make its fleet more relatable and engaging, turning the cars into mobile art pieces that can bring a smile to riders' faces. This approach fosters a connection between the technology and the communities it serves.