Waymo robotaxis deployed in Miami; more cities planned for 2026

Jan. 22 (UPI) — Waymo’s autonomous taxi service has expanded to Miami, where paying customers can hail rides from the robotaxis, Waymo announced on Thursday.

Miami is the sixth market in which Waymo is providing its robotaxis as part of its 2026 ride-hailing service expansion.

“Miami is a city defined by its energy, myriad of global cultures, and its forward-looking spirit, and Waymo is proud to add to that momentum,” said Tekedra Mawakana, Waymo’s co-chief executive officer, in a blog post.

“We’re excited to offer its residents and visitors a safe, reliable and magical way to move around and look forward to earning their trust with every ride.”

The Miami move will start in a 60-square-mile area that includes the city’s Brickell, Coral Gables, Design District and Wynwood neighborhoods, CNBC reported.

The service eventually will extend to the Miami International Airport, but Waymo officials have not said when.

A Miami-Dade County official welcomed the new service on Thursday.

“As a county that embraces innovation, we see the potential for emerging mobility technologies to expand transportation options and support a more connected future,” Miami-Dade County Commission Chairman Anthony Rodriguez said.

“We look forward to working collaboratively while ensuring these operations meet our high standards for safety, transparency and accountability, and that they integrate thoughtfully into our transportation network for the benefit of residents and visitors alike,” he added.

Waymo officials began testing the autonomous taxis in Miami about a year ago and said they have nearly 10,000 locals already signed up for the service and will invite more to join.

Those who want to use the service can hail a ride via the Waymo app.

Waymo has partnered with Moove, which will manage the Waymo fleet in Miami.

Waymo also is providing service in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Phoenix, Atlanta and Austin, Texas.

It has 10 other cities targeted for service expansion in 2026 and is testing its robotaxis in eight other markets for possible future expansion.