Waymo expands driverless service on Peninsula
Waymo began rolling out expanded driverless vehicle service across more parts of the Peninsula on Tuesday, marking the latest phase in the company’s gradual push through the Bay Area.
The Alphabet-owned company is adding service in Brisbane, South San Francisco, San Bruno, Millbrae and Burlingame. It is also extending coverage in parts of Palo Alto, Mountain View, Los Altos and Los Altos Hills. Riders can now book trips to and from those areas using the Waymo One app, with pricing based on distance, trip duration and current demand.
The latest rollout expands Waymo’s Bay Area service area by 80 square miles and is the company’s third major launch on the Peninsula since it began operating outside San Francisco last August, starting with Daly City, Broadmoor and Colma. It added service in parts of northern Santa Clara County in April.
While Waymo has state approval to operate throughout the Peninsula, it has pursued a phased rollout.
To date, Waymo says it has provided 10 million rides — five times more than the previous year — even as safety concerns continue to draw scrutiny. Some critics, however, have softened their stance.
San Mateo County Supervisor David Canepa, who previously slammed Waymo for failing to consult with local governments, said he has since changed his view.
“I’ve had the opportunity to ride in a Waymo robotaxi many times and can say I’ve enjoyed the experience,” Canepa said in a previous interview with this news organization. “However, I will never hesitate to act in favor of county residents if Waymo poses a threat to them in any way.”
Local service providers have also praised the partnership.
“Partnering with Waymo to provide free rides has been a meaningful resource for our clients,” said Michelle Silva, director of client services at Daly City Partnership. “Many of the residents we serve work or access essential services in these neighboring cities. Safe, reliable and low- or no-cost transportation allows them to get to medical appointments, pick up prescriptions, commute to work and maintain independence—especially for our senior and disabled clients who often have limited options.”
Despite growing support, Waymo has also been a frequent target of vandalism. In February 2024, a crowd in San Francisco’s Chinatown set a Waymo vehicle on fire. During recent anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles, the vehicles were again targeted.
Waymo is slated to expand coverage in the Los Angeles area starting Wednesday.
“As we expand Waymo One in California, we’ll continue working with local partners and policymakers to ensure our service helps local communities gain access to reliable, safe and environmentally friendly transportation,” the company said in a statement.
Last month, the California Public Utilities Commission and Department of Motor Vehicles approved Waymo’s application to operate in nearly all of San Jose. The company is also in talks to begin service at San Francisco International Airport, though no timeline has been announced.