Waymo Tests Self-Driving Tech in Chicago

Waymo begins mapping Chicago streets with human drivers as state considers AV pilot program

Waymo Tests Self-Driving Cars in Chicago

Waymo's begun testing self-driving vehicles in Chicago as part of an initial mapping and data collection phase, transit officials confirmed. The autonomous vehicle company's cars currently have human drivers and aren't yet picking up passengers. The testing comes as Illinois lawmakers consider legislation that'd launch an autonomous vehicle pilot program in several counties, including Cook County.

Legislative Push for AV Pilot Program

Illinois lawmakers are considering legislation to establish an autonomous vehicle pilot program that'd operate under state oversight rather than city control. If passed, the bill would require AVs to meet safety benchmarks over three years. The legislative session ends on May 31, 2026, but supporters don't expect the bill to pass this session. The proposed legislation represents a significant shift in how autonomous vehicles would be regulated in Illinois, moving authority from municipal to state level.

Opposition and Safety Claims

Union groups, including Illinois Teamsters and the Chicago Gig Alliance, oppose the legislation, citing concerns about job losses for rideshare and taxi drivers. Some lawmakers have proposed alternative legislation requiring human operators in autonomous vehicles. Waymo claims its vehicles have 92% fewer serious crashes compared to human-driven cars over the same distance. The company emphasizes that its vehicles follow speed limits and handle challenging traffic scenarios appropriately.

Waymo's Broader Operations

Waymo currently operates in 11 U.S. cities and is expanding to more locations internationally. The Chicago testing phase represents the company's effort to map local streets and collect data before potentially launching passenger service. Officials didn't provide a timeline for when the vehicles might begin operating without human drivers or picking up passengers in Chicago.

What Riders Need to Know

Chicago residents won't see driverless Waymo vehicles picking up passengers yet, as the current testing phase focuses on mapping and data collection with human drivers. The timeline for autonomous passenger service depends on both the completion of testing and potential legislative approval. Moovit provides real-time updates on Chicago's transit options and emerging mobility services.