Waymo to begin testing in Chicago and Charlotte

Group 1 - Waymo is expanding its autonomous vehicle operations by introducing robotaxis in Chicago and Charlotte [1][4] - The company will start manual mapping and data collection in these cities to prepare for future operations [2] - Chicago presents a more challenging environment for Waymo due to harsh winters and dense urban complexity, while Charlotte's conditions are more favorable [3] Group 2 - The introduction of operations in Chicago and Charlotte follows Waymo's recent launch of commercial driverless services in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando, increasing its total operational cities to 10 [4] - Waymo is also planning to test and launch services in additional cities such as Denver, London, and Washington, D.C. [4] - The company secured $16 billion in funding earlier this month to support its international expansion efforts [4]