Free robotaxi rides are coming to L.A. [Video]

Driverless taxis from Waymo will be offering free rides to the public in certain parts of Los Angeles starting on Thursday.

KNX News’ Emily Valdez reported that the driverless taxis will operate 24/7 in a 63-square-mile radius from downtown L.A. to Santa Monica. People will be able to order the rides on an app, just like any other rideshare.

Thousands of people have already taken more than 15,000 early-access rides with Waymo. The company received approval last week to expand its operations beyond test rides, making it the first fully autonomous car service to offer regular services in the city. There’s currently a waitlist if you want one of these free rides.

The cars will transition to a paid service in the coming weeks.

There are efforts underway to regulate driverless taxi companies. Sen. Dave Cortese introduced a bill in February that, if passed, would empower local governments to regulate autonomous vehicles.

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