Uber Eats customers in the Phoenix metropolitan area may soon notice a futuristic change in their delivery experience – Waymo self-driving cars. This innovative new service, set to launch on Wednesday, is the result of a partnership between Uber and Waymo that was announced last year. While Uber and Waymo have already collaborated on self-driving rides in Phoenix, this marks the first time that Uber Eats will utilize Waymo’s autonomous vehicles for deliveries.
Phoenix becomes the seventh city where Uber Eats is offering autonomous deliveries but the first to do so with Waymo’s vehicles. In the past, Uber Eats has partnered with other robotics companies to pilot autonomous deliveries in various markets. However, this latest collaboration with Waymo is exclusive to users in Phoenix, Chandler, Mesa, and Tempe, with plans to expand the service area and add more eligible restaurants in the near future.
Orders placed by Uber Eats customers in areas serviced by Waymo will have the option to choose delivery by a self-driving vehicle. While standard fees will apply, customers will not be charged for tips. This partnership between Uber and Waymo reflects a shared goal of promoting zero-emission transportation and fostering innovation for both consumers and merchants in the Phoenix area and beyond. Both companies envision a future where autonomous deliveries are the norm, leading to a more efficient and sustainable food delivery industry.
While the current focus is on Phoenix, there is potential for Waymo deliveries to expand to other cities in the future. Waymo’s core ride-hailing service is already available in parts of Los Angeles and San Francisco, indicating a broader reach for autonomous transportation services. The collaboration between Uber and Waymo signifies a shift towards a more advanced and efficient food delivery system that prioritizes cutting-edge technology and sustainability.
The introduction of Waymo self-driving cars to Uber Eats marks a significant step towards the future of food delivery. By embracing autonomous vehicles, Uber and Waymo are not only revolutionizing the way deliveries are made but also paving the way for a more sustainable and innovative food industry. With plans for expansion and the potential for further advancements in autonomous technology, the partnership between Uber and Waymo represents a promising glimpse into the future of transportation and delivery services.