# Waymo and Hyundai Collaborate to Launch Autonomous Ioniq 5 Robotaxis on Our Roads
The realm of autonomous driving technology is advancing swiftly, leading us toward a future where vehicles operate without human drivers. As a pivotal advancement in this direction, **Waymo**, a frontrunner in autonomous vehicle technology, has teamed up with **Hyundai Motor Company**. This alliance will merge Waymo’s state-of-the-art autonomous driving software and hardware with Hyundai’s well-liked electric vehicle (EV), the **Ioniq 5**. This collaboration signifies a substantial milestone in the quest for fully autonomous, electric ride-hailing services.
## A Common Aspiration for Tomorrow’s Mobility
Both entities aspire to transform transportation, aiming to make it safer, more efficient, and highly convenient. **José Muñoz**, president and global COO of Hyundai Motor Company, highlighted this mutual aspiration, declaring, “Hyundai and Waymo share a vision to enhance the safety, efficiency, and convenience of how individuals travel.”
Waymo’s co-CEO, **Tekedra Mawakana**, reinforced this notion, emphasizing the synergy between the objectives of both companies. “We are excited to team up with Hyundai as we advance our mission to be the world’s most trusted driver,” Mawakana stated. “Hyundai’s commitment to sustainability and its robust electric vehicle strategy make them an excellent partner for us as we expand our fully autonomous service to a larger number of riders across various locations.”
## The Hyundai Ioniq 5: An Ideal Match for Autonomous Technology
The **Hyundai Ioniq 5** is a widely celebrated electric vehicle, recognized for its innovative architecture, remarkable range, and sophisticated technology. It has swiftly risen to prominence among the most favored EVs available, and its integration with Waymo’s autonomous driving capabilities is a logical progression in its development.
The Ioniq 5 is constructed on Hyundai’s **Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP)**, offering a versatile and scalable base for electric vehicles. This platform is exceptionally suited for the incorporation of autonomous driving technologies, as it provides the necessary space and power to support the sensors, cameras, and processing hardware essential for self-driving systems.
Waymo’s autonomous driving technology, referred to as the **Waymo Driver**, is among the most sophisticated globally. It utilizes a blend of **LiDAR, radar, cameras, and machine learning algorithms** to maneuver through complex urban landscapes without human assistance. By merging the electric drivetrain of the Ioniq 5 with Waymo’s autonomous technology, both companies aspire to produce a fleet of eco-friendly, self-driving vehicles capable of safely and efficiently transporting passengers.
## Implications for Consumers
Though the partnership between Waymo and Hyundai is thrilling, it’s crucial to recognize that you won’t be able to buy a driverless Ioniq 5 at your local Hyundai dealership in the near term. Instead, these autonomous Ioniq 5s will be included in **Waymo One**, Waymo’s ride-hailing service, which is currently operational in select regions across the United States.
Waymo One is already functioning in parts of **Austin, Texas; Los Angeles; Phoenix; and San Francisco**, where it manages a fleet of autonomous vehicles. Currently, Waymo’s fleet comprises **Jaguar I-Pace EVs** and **Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans**, but the inclusion of the Ioniq 5 will enhance the service with an innovative and sustainable touch.
For passengers, this suggests that shortly, they may have the chance to summon a ride in a fully autonomous, electric Ioniq 5, providing a preview of the future of mobility. These vehicles will be operated by Waymo, enabling passengers to experience a driverless journey in a cutting-edge electric vehicle while also contributing to a more sustainable and efficient transportation network.
## Broader Consequences of the Collaboration
The collaboration between Waymo and Hyundai carries substantial significance for numerous reasons. Firstly, it underscores the rising relevance of **electric vehicles** within the autonomous driving sector. As we transition to a more sustainable future, electric vehicles are evolving as the preferred platform for autonomous technology due to their lower environmental footprint and adaptable designs.
Secondly, this partnership highlights the escalating collaboration between **automakers and technology firms** in the pursuit of developing autonomous vehicles. While manufacturers like Hyundai possess the knowledge to construct high-quality electric vehicles, technology leaders like Waymo provide the necessary software and hardware for achieving full autonomy. By joining forces, these companies can expedite the advancement and implementation of autonomous driving innovations.
Ultimately, this partnership marks a significant leap forward in the commercialization of autonomous vehicles. Although fully autonomous cars are still in the initial phases of rollout, collaborations like this are essential in moving the technology closer to widespread acceptance. As more autonomous vehicles begin to populate the streets, we can anticipate substantial shifts in travel patterns.
