Waymo to begin passenger rides in its new Ojai robotaxi

Waymo will begin inviting non‑employee passengers to ride in its new Ojai robotaxi, using a Zeekr RT minivan rebranded for Waymo’s sixth‑generation platform. Initial access will be offered to select riders in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Phoenix, with trips expected to start free as Waymo collects data on passenger experience before introducing paid rides. The Ojai features a larger cabin than prior vehicles, increased legroom, a flat floor, low-step height, braille instructions, grab bars, and three large screens with multiple charging ports, enabling seating for up to four passengers. The rollout will gradually expand to more riders and cities.

Waymo’s sixth‑generation system aims to reduce sensor counts while improving perception, with more capable cameras, lidar, and radar designed for high‑volume production, the company says, and partnerships with Toyota point to future models. This vehicle marks the shift away from Jaguar I‑Pace, which the brand discontinued in 2024, toward a broader fleet built with Zeekr/Geely technology. Waymo says the program imports Zeekr vehicles with the software removed to comply with tariffs on Chinese software. The move comes after recent issues, including a pause of freeway driving across cities over construction concerns and a software recall triggered by flooded Texas roads.