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NEW YORK CITY — New York City Mayor Eric Adams and the Department of Transportation (DOT) announced that Waymo has been granted the first-ever permit to begin testing a limited number of autonomous vehicles (AV) in parts of Manhattan and Downtown Brooklyn.
Waymo will start testing up to eight autonomous vehicles in Manhattan and Downtown Brooklyn in late September, officials said.
After the pilot testing period, Waymo will have the opportunity to apply for an extension to their pilot testing period.
“We’re a tech-friendly administration, and we’re always looking for innovative ways to safely move our city forward,” Adams said in a statement. “New York City is proud to welcome Waymo to test this new technology in Manhattan and Brooklyn, as we know, this testing is only the first step in moving our city further into the 21st century. As we continue to implement responsible innovation, we will always prioritize street safety.”
The permit requires a driver behind the wheel during testing periods, members of the public will not be able to use the cars. Waymo has also obtained necessary permits from the Department of Motor Vehicles, officials said.
Currently, state law does not allow autonomous vehicles, and it is not known at this time if there are any plans to pass a new law in the state legislature.
“With over 10 million rides completed in five major U.S. cities and a strong safety record, we’re proud to be working with leaders to lay the groundwork to bring this life-saving technology to New Yorkers one day, beginning with receiving the first-ever permit issued in the city to drive autonomously,” Annabel Chang, head of U.S. state and local public policy, Waymo, said. “We believe it is essential for companies to collaborate directly with cities on the rollout of autonomous technology, and are pleased to have reached this next step in New York City.”
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