Elon Musk Has His Vision. Waymo Chief T. Mawakana Says She's Got a Better One
16 days ago
- #autonomous-vehicles
- #Waymo-vs-Tesla
- #safety-and-regulation
- Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO of Waymo, avoids engaging with Elon Musk's claims about Tesla's Full Self-Driving capabilities.
- Waymo operates the largest fleet of driverless cars in the U.S., with over 1,500 robotaxis, while Tesla's autonomous taxi service is still in testing.
- Mawakana emphasizes safety and real-world service impact, contrasting with Musk's rapid development approach.
- Waymo's autonomous vehicles have not caused any fatalities, unlike Tesla's Full Self-Driving program, which has been involved in multiple fatal crashes.
- Waymo's technology includes advanced sensors like radar and lidar, while Tesla relies primarily on cameras and AI.
- Mawakana's leadership style is deliberate and cautious, focusing on gradual expansion and safety, unlike Musk's high-risk, high-reward strategy.
- Waymo is expanding its robotaxi services to cities like Austin, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and soon Miami and DC, with plans for New York City.
- The company faces challenges, including job displacement concerns and public resistance, but maintains a strong safety record.
- Mawakana's background in law and policy has been crucial in navigating regulatory and community challenges for Waymo.
- The future of autonomous vehicles hinges on balancing technological advancement with societal impact, with Waymo and Tesla representing divergent paths.