According to a report published June 5 by The Arizona Republic, Waymo is expanding its area for its autonomous vehicle service to north Scottsdale, Desert Ridge. Waymo is expanding its service area in Phoenix and Scottsdale by 90 square miles, taking the total coverage to 315 square miles.
Phoenix was already the largest fully autonomous service area in the US. The expansion includes parts of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and various attractions including Desert Ridge Marketplace, TPC Scottsdale, the Talking Stick Entertainment District and some parts of Mesa. Alongside the expansion, Waymo is also enhancing in-vehicle music features and has introduced a "share trip" feature in its app. It is also preparing to offer a 24/7 curbside terminal pick-up and drop-off service at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
In May, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Office of Defects Investigation opened a preliminary investigation into Waymo vehicles due to reports of unexpected driving behavior. The investigation involves 31 incidents, 14 of which occurred in Arizona. Waymo was required to provide specific details related to each incident by June 11. Waymo officials say they are committed to continuing their cooperation with federal authorities.
