Waymo’s ambitious trajectory is set to accelerate, as CEO Tekedra Mawakana recently expressed optimism about the company’s potential to achieve 1 million weekly paid autonomous rides by the end of this year. This projection marks a significant leap from the current 400,000 weekly rides, a figure that has already seen impressive growth, having quadrupled since 2025.
Expansion Plans and Fleet Enhancement
To realize this goal, Waymo is strategically enhancing its fleet by introducing new vehicle models and broadening its operational footprint. The company is poised to enter several new markets this year, including Washington, Detroit, Las Vegas, San Diego, and Denver. Currently, Waymo operates in six cities, having recently expanded its presence to Miami in January. The company boasts a fleet of over 2,500 fully driverless vehicles, a testament to its commitment to advancing autonomous technology.
In the competitive landscape of autonomous transportation, Waymo faces formidable challenges from industry rival Tesla. While Tesla claims to operate approximately 500 robotaxis, the majority of these vehicles still rely on human drivers. Tesla’s current markets include Austin and the San Francisco Bay Area, where it continues to refine its autonomous offerings.
As Waymo embarks on this ambitious journey, the evolution of its services could redefine the landscape of urban mobility, paving the way for a future where autonomous rides become a commonplace aspect of daily life.
