Story perspectives

California OKs Waymo Ride-Hailing Expansion Across 18 Counties

8/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

The California Public Utilities Commission approved Waymo's ride-hailing expansion across 18 counties, adding San Diego and Sacramento and extending service in Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Waymo unveiled the Ojai self-driving taxi, began rollout in Los Angeles and Phoenix, and will prepare rider-only service in San Diego this summer.
Waymo reported 94% fewer serious-injury collisions over 220 million miles and gave no launch timeline, citing prior California authorization.

1 of 1

Story summary

The California Public Utilities Commission approved Waymo's ride-hailing expansion across 18 counties, adding San Diego and Sacramento and extending service in Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Waymo unveiled the Ojai self-driving taxi, began rollout in Los Angeles and Phoenix, and will prepare rider-only service in San Diego this summer.
Waymo reported 94% fewer serious-injury collisions over 220 million miles and gave no launch timeline, citing prior California authorization.