Driverless Rides Down the Las Vegas Strip Are Here
Driverless cars are now trying to take over the Las Vegas Strip. Waymo has started giving fully driverless rides to its first public passengers in Las Vegas.
The company launched public rides on Sept. 14 after spending months testing its vehicles on Las Vegas roads. Both visitors and locals are being invited to ride as the service slowly opens to more people.
Waymo’s nearly 24-mile service area includes part of the Las Vegas Strip, along with destinations such as The Venetian and Allegiant Stadium. Riders can also travel between areas near Spring Valley and Winchester.
Waymo says more than 100,000 people have already expressed interest in riding in Las Vegas, and it is gradually giving more people access.
How Do You Get a Waymo in Las Vegas?
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If you want to try it, you can download the Waymo app and express interest in riding in Las Vegas. The company says it will continue adding riders as it works toward opening the service to everyone.
Once you have access, the ride is completely autonomous. There is no human driver behind the wheel while the vehicle takes passengers to their destination.
The Las Vegas Cars Are New
Las Vegas is one of the first cities where most of the Waymo fleet will use the company’s newer Ojai vehicles. They are powered by Waymo’s sixth-generation autonomous driving system.
The Ojai has a flat floor, a lower step for easier entry, and three large screens inside. Riders can also adjust the temperature and music during the trip. Waymo introduced the Ojai earlier this year.
Waymo Has Been Testing in Las Vegas for Months
The company has been testing its driverless vehicles around Las Vegas before allowing members of the public inside. Waymo says the Sept. 14 launch marks the first time public riders can take fully autonomous trips in the city.
Access is still limited for now, but Waymo plans to keep adding riders throughout Clark County. Eventually, the company says it wants the Las Vegas service to be available to everyone.
