Waymo, the autonomous vehicle company owned by Alphabet, is venturing back into the delivery business with a new partnership with DoorDash in Phoenix. While Waymo has been primarily focused on developing robotaxis, this collaboration signifies a return to the delivery sector for the company.
In the past, Waymo experimented with delivery services through pilot programs with UPS and Uber Eats, as well as developing self-driving trucks under its Waymo Via division. Now, the strategic alliance with DoorDash aims to provide customers in a 315-square-mile area of Phoenix with self-driving deliveries for food and groceries.
Initially, the Waymo delivery service will cater to orders from DashMart, DoorDash’s convenience and grocery stores, with plans to expand to include more local Phoenix merchants and a wider range of products over time.
“We’re excited to offer customers a novel experience through autonomous deliveries, which aligns with DoorDash’s vision for the future of local commerce,” said David Richter, Vice President of Business and Corporate Development at DoorDash.
While DoorDash already has experience in autonomous delivery technology through partnerships and its in-house tech team, the collaboration with Waymo opens up new opportunities for both companies in the evolving landscape of autonomous deliveries.
Source: TechCrunch
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