Waymo can keep testing robotaxis in NYC until end of 2025

Core Points - New York City regulators have extended Waymo's autonomous vehicle testing permit through the end of the year, allowing the company to continue its testing efforts in the city [1][2] - The extended permit allows Waymo to deploy up to eight Jaguar I-Pace vehicles in Manhattan and Downtown Brooklyn, with a human safety operator present [2] - Waymo's permit extension indicates progress towards potentially being the first autonomous vehicle company to launch a robotaxi service in New York City, where it has been attempting to operate since 2021 [3][4] Regulatory Environment - The initial permit was granted in August and was set to expire at the end of September, but the extension maintains the same terms [2] - Waymo's drivers are exempt from New York's regulations requiring one hand on the wheel at all times due to the permit [2] - Despite the permit, Waymo cannot carry passengers or operate a commercial robotaxi service without obtaining additional licenses from the city's Taxi and Limousine Commission [4] Challenges - There is currently no permitting structure in New York that allows for the testing or deployment of robotaxis without a human safety driver [5] - Legislation has been introduced to create a framework for driverless operation, but no laws have been passed yet [5]