Key Takeaways:
– Waymo is considering Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 compact crossover for its robotaxi service
– A possible “Waymo-Hyundai” deal can potentially sidestep 100% tariffs on Chinese-built EVs
– Waymo continues to validate its self-driving system in Zeekr minivans
– Hyundai uses the Ioniq 5 for its robotaxi service, Motional, expected to launch in 2026
– Waymo One currently operates in San Francisco, Phoenix, and Los Angeles –expand to Austin and Atlanta by 2025
Waymo Considers Hyundai’s Ioniq 5
Alphabet-owned Waymo, already in a deal with Zeekr for electric minivans, may turn to Hyundai for the provision of vehicles to transform into its popular robotaxis. The robotaxi company’s discussions with Hyundai are centered around the use of the Ioniq 5 compact crossover as a replacement for the Zeekr minivan, Reuters reported, citing South Korea’s Electronic Times.
A Shift to Avoid Tariffs
This strategic move to Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 could help Waymo dodge the heftily increased 100% tariff on Chinese-manufactured electric vehicles, like the Zeekr minivan. This tariff is set to be effective from September 27.
Waymo’s Self-driving System Validation
Waymo, in a response to Reuters, mentioned that it persistently validates its advanced self-driving technology, the Waymo Driver, in the Zeekr minivans. The firm reveals that these vehicles will be incorporated into its Waymo One service once they are ready for operations. Waymo’s current fleet of robotaxis is built on the chassis of the Jaguar I-Pace compact crossover, following a previous association with the Chrysler Pacifica minivans.
Partnership Continuity
Despite reports suggesting a pivot to Hyundai, Zeekr voiced that there are no changes to its current partnership with Waymo.
Hyundai’s Robotaxi Venture
Interestingly, Hyundai uses the same model, the Ioniq 5, as a base for its own robotaxi service. Known as Motional, this service is being developed conjointly by Hyundai and automotive supplier Aptiv. Motional has successfully trialed its service in Las Vegas and anticipates launching a public service in 2026.
Waymo One’s Current Status and Future Plans
The ongoing Waymo One service has been functional for several years, presently providing services in San Francisco, Phoenix, and Los Angeles. Delivering more than 100,000 trips weekly, Waymo aims to broaden its network to Austin and Atlanta in early 2025 using the Uber network in these cities.
Closing Words
Johnny Luu, a Waymo spokesperson, hinted they continually evaluate different vehicles for their self-driving technology. Amid discussions with various automakers, Waymo’s decision to possibly collaborate with Hyundai for its Ioniq model not only reflects a strategic move to avoid impending tariffs but could also serve as a catalyst for its planned expansion in 2025.