Waymo Pivots to Ride-Hailing, Secures Major Radar Chipset Order
Waymo, the self-driving technology company, has announced changes in its business strategy. It's pushing back plans for autonomous trucking and focusing on ride-hailing. Meanwhile, Arbe Robotics has secured a significant order from Weifu High-Technology Group for its radar chipsets. Waymo's latest software release also brings improvements for vehicle dynamics simulation.
Waymo is delaying commercial and operational efforts in trucking and most technical development in that sector. Instead, it's focusing on ride-hailing due to significant growth and rider demand in San Francisco, Phoenix, and Los Angeles. The company continues to collaborate with Daimler Truck North America to advance autonomous truck development.
Arbe Robotics has received a preliminary order worth $11.6 million from Weifu High-Technology Group for its radar chipsets, scheduled for 2024. This follows a $1 million order for professional services, including engineering support and lab setup. Arbe and Weifu have been collaborating since 2019, serving the automotive industry in China.
Mechanical Simulation Corporation has released the 2023.1 versions of its VehicleSim® software products. The update introduces alternate steering methods and a terramechanical tire model for enhanced simulation of vehicle dynamics in various scenarios.
Waymo's shift in focus to ride-hailing reflects the growing demand for autonomous services in that sector. Arbe Robotics' significant order from Weifu High-Technology Group underscores the growing interest in radar technology for autonomous cars. Meanwhile, advancements in vehicle dynamics simulation software continue to improve autonomous car development.
