Waymo is looking to expand its Robotaxi in Portland, with testing already underway

Waymo continues to do so Add a self-driving taxi To more American cities. The company announced on Tuesday Next location: Portland, Oregon. Portland will join Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Orlando and a number of other cities.

Although Waymo hasn’t announced an official launch date, the company — which is owned by Alphabet, Google’s parent company — is sending human drivers in its cars to learn about its Waymo Driver technology on the streets of Portland.

The mayor is on board.

“We need every tool to help us achieve our Vision Zero goals, and autonomous technology plays an increasingly important role in providing a safe, thriving, and affordable intermodal transportation system,” Portland Mayor Keith Wilson said in a Waymo press release. Zero visibility is a Portland program aimed at eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries.

In the press release, Waymo said it believes Portland’s independent spirit and sense of community make the city a suitable place for Waymo to expand. However, some independent community members have different opinions.

Opposing Waymo in Portland

according to Oregon Liveopposition to Waymo’s plans centers around safety, accessibility, the potential for human drivers to lose income, and the need for permits to drive self-driving cars on Portland streets.

A Waymo representative told CNET that the company is seeking to establish a formal state-level regulatory system that would permit its technology before it begins public service. For this reason, the company will follow its own safety framework and must obtain the necessary permits.

According to WaymoIts technology has a serious crash rate about 13 times lower than that of human drivers in the cities where it operates.

Portland’s history with new transportation services

Oregon Live reports City records show Waymo spent thousands of dollars lobbying Portland city officials in late 2025. That may have paved the way for Proposed draft law It would have allowed self-driving cars in Oregon without a license or permit. This bill failed to pass.

Uber’s 2014 entry into Portland as well He met the opposition.

according to Oregon Public RadioThe Portland City Council is considering a measure that would raise wages for Uber and Lyft drivers, cutting into both companies’ profits. If that proposal is approved, both companies have said they will leave the city.