The Washington PostThe Washington Post

California just opened the floodgates for self-driving cars

By Trisha Thadani and Jeremy B. Merrill

11 Aug 2023 · 7 min read

informed Summary

  1. California regulators have approved a plan by two self-driving car companies to offer a taxi service in San Francisco, a move that could pave the way for more widespread adoption of the technology.

SAN FRANCISCO - California regulators voted Thursday to allow self-driving car companies Waymo and Cruise to offer 24/7 paid taxi service in San Francisco, a major win for the industry that could pave the way for more widespread adoption of the technology.

Cars without drivers have become a common sight on San Francisco's winding, hilly and often foggy streets. Thursday's vote stripped most limitations on operating and charging for rides, essentially creating more ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft - just without the drivers.

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