Google’s self-driving cars are about to hit the streets of Madrid. Waymo, Alphabet’s self-driving car company, has announced that it will begin testing its electric vehicles in the Community of Madrid in the coming days, with the goal of transporting its first passengers in 2027.
The vehicles chosen are the Jaguar I-PACE, white cars equipped with cameras, radar, and sensors that can identify pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
Where will the first self-driving cars operate in Madrid?
The tests will initially take place in Madrid, Alcobendas, and Getafe, both during the day and at night.
In the first phase, the cars will operate with drivers who will collect information about the streets and traffic. Subsequently, autonomous driving tests will begin, though a safety specialist will still be behind the wheel.
When will it be possible to ride in a driverless car?
Waymo plans to offer its first passenger rides in 2027, although it has not yet announced an exact date or the prices for the service.
The company won’t be the only one testing this technology in Madrid. Uber, WeRide, and Avomo have also received authorization to conduct trials with autonomous vehicles in the region.
For now, the permits granted allow for testing but not for offering a commercial driverless service. For the latter to be possible, new authorizations will be required.