Waymo begins fully autonomous operations with 6th-generation Driver system, targeting 1 million weekly rides

Waymo/Waymo Ojai

Waymo deployed its 6th-generation Driver system in full autonomous operations without human safety drivers, expanding across multiple U.S. cities. The new system is smaller, cheaper, and more efficient than the fifth generation while handling diverse weather conditions.

• 6th-gen Driver deployment eliminates all safety driver roles in Waymo fleets
• System costs less than $20,000 per unit—over 50% reduction from 5th-gen ($40,000+)
• 17-megapixel main camera with improved low-light and dynamic-range performance
• Field of view extends 500 meters in both day and night conditions
• Company targets 1 million rides per week across deployed cities by year-end