Waymo Secures California Green Light to Roll Out Driverless Rides Across 18 Counties

California regulators have granted Waymo its largest expansion to date, authorizing fully driverless rides in 18 counties from Sonoma to San Diego. The approval, issued by the California Public Utilities Commission, allows the company to charge for autonomous trips throughout the Bay Area and Los Angeles, and to launch new markets in Sacramento and San Diego. This move marks a significant step toward mainstream autonomous mobility, potentially easing congestion and offering a new transportation option for commuters and tourists alike. While the expansion could accelerate adoption of robotaxis, its success will hinge on continued safety performance and public acceptance.