Waymo brings paid robotaxi rides to highways

Core Insights - Whimo has expanded its operations to freeways in San Francisco, Phoenix, and Los Angeles, marking a significant step in the evolution of autonomous driving [1][3] - The shift to freeway driving is crucial for making autonomous vehicles mainstream, as it allows for longer, more efficient trips compared to urban driving [2][3] - Whimo's operational model focuses on building a network rather than just a map of test zones, which could lead to a national driverless network [3][4] Company Performance - Whimo has logged over 100 million miles of driving, significantly outpacing Tesla's 1 million miles, highlighting its advanced operational capabilities [4] - Alphabet, Whimo's parent company, has a forward PE ratio of 28, contrasting sharply with Tesla's 240, indicating that Whimo is delivering on its promises at a larger scale [5][4] Industry Context - The transition to freeway driving represents a major economic shift for the autonomous driving industry, as it enhances the value of rides and reduces inefficiencies associated with urban driving [2][3] - The successful implementation of autonomous driving on highways is seen as a critical milestone, with high stakes involved in ensuring safety and technology reliability [7][8]