Waymo Begins Manual Autonomous Vehicle Tests at Newark Airport

Alphabet’s self-driving technology unit, Waymo, has started manual testing of its autonomous vehicles at Newark Liberty International Airport. This initiative marks a significant step toward introducing its robotaxi services to one of the busiest airports in the New York metropolitan area.

The testing, conducted with human drivers, is part of a collaboration between Waymo and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The company aims to carefully evaluate airport traffic patterns, ensuring safe and efficient integration of self-driving vehicles into real-world environments.

Although Waymo’s expansion has been gradual due to strict regulations and costly technology, it continues to advance through partnerships with ride-hailing platforms and fleet operators. The company’s move coincides with Tesla’s upcoming rollout of its long-awaited robotaxi network in the U.S. Meanwhile, Waymo plans to launch its fully driverless ride-hailing service in London by 2026, expanding its global footprint.