Core Viewpoint - Uber is expanding its autonomous vehicle services in multiple cities, including Atlanta, to compete with rivals like Tesla and Lyft, as consumer interest in self-driving cars grows [1][5]. Group 1: Uber's Autonomous Vehicle Services - Uber has started offering rides in Waymo's autonomous vehicles in Atlanta since June, allowing users to opt for self-driving cars [1]. - Users have reported needing to cancel multiple human driver requests to successfully match with a Waymo autonomous vehicle, indicating a growing demand for this service [1][3]. - Uber's spokesperson mentioned that the fleet of autonomous vehicles in Atlanta will increase to "hundreds" in the coming years, with dozens currently operational [5]. Group 2: User Experience and Preferences - Users like Nate Galesich have taken numerous rides in Waymo's autonomous vehicles, with some reporting an average of 35 rides since the service began [1][2]. - The rides are typically short, averaging 4 miles and costing under $12, primarily on city streets rather than highways [5]. - Users are encouraged to avoid peak hours and select non-highway routes to increase their chances of matching with an autonomous vehicle [5]. Group 3: Public Perception and Concerns - Despite the growing interest, many potential passengers still express safety concerns regarding autonomous vehicles, influenced by negative news about accidents [6]. - A survey indicated that 17% of Americans are unwilling to use fully or semi-autonomous vehicles, although urban residents show more openness to trying them [6]. - Galesich believes that acceptance of autonomous vehicles will grow over time, similar to the gradual adoption of smartphones after the launch of the iPhone [6].