Waymo

Waymo is a US-based self-driving ride-hailing company that is currently in the news due to a combination of expansion efforts and safety concerns. Recent events have brought increased scrutiny to the company's operations. Specifically, the NHTSA has opened an investigation after a Waymo vehicle struck a child near a school in Santa Monica, raising concerns about the safety of robotaxis. Additionally, a Waymo vehicle was involved in an incident that resulted in the death of a cat in San Francisco, further fueling public anxiety. Despite these safety concerns, Waymo is also expanding its operations, including a planned rollout in London, where its vehicles are undergoing training to adapt to the city's unique road conditions. This expansion occurs amidst increasing competition from other self-driving companies like Zoox. Waymo's current relevance lies in its position as a leading player in the autonomous vehicle industry, and the ongoing debate surrounding the safety and societal impact of self-driving technology.