Waymo bringing driverless cars to Chicago

Waymo announces launch in Chicago

Waymo is beginning early groundwork to launch autonomous ride-hailing services in Chicago.

CHICAGO - Waymo is beginning early groundwork to launch autonomous ride-hailing services in Chicago.

The company said its Waymo Driver system is designed to operate in complex urban environments, including dense traffic, multi-lane expressways and winter weather conditions common in Chicago. 

Waymo said its technology has logged more than 127 million fully autonomous miles and has shown significantly fewer serious-injury crashes and pedestrian collisions compared with human drivers in areas where it currently operates.

Waymo said it is coordinating with community leaders and policymakers as it prepares for a future rollout.

What we don't know:

The company did not provide a timeline for when ride-hailing service could begin in the city.

What they're saying:

"Chicago is leading the future of mobility by welcoming Waymo to begin initial mapping and manual testing in the city," State Rep. Kam Buckner said in a statement. "This progress is a vital step toward safer streets and more accessible transportation for all our neighborhoods."