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Waymo Begins Rollout of Sixth-Generation Ojai Robotaxis Built on Zeekr Minivans

Waymo casts the sixth‑generation system as a lower‑cost platform built for tougher weather.

Overview

  • The new Ojai vehicles are entering service in San Francisco and Los Angeles as Waymo adds Zeekr-built minivans while keeping its existing Jaguar I‑Pace fleet in operation.
  • Waymo details a 17‑megapixel main camera, upgraded lidar and radar, integrated cleaning systems, and new algorithms intended to improve performance in rain, snow, low light, and glare.
  • Waymo and DoorDash confirmed a pilot in Atlanta that alerts nearby Dashers to close open robotaxi doors, with a screenshot showing a $11.25 payment for the task.
  • Plans to expand to Boston and Tokyo are announced, though Massachusetts must first legalize fully autonomous vehicles before Boston launches.
  • U.S. political scrutiny has intensified over the China-linked base vehicles, and Waymo says Zeekr will not receive its autonomous driving technology or sensor or rider data.