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Waymo Begins Charging for Rides in Its Autonomous Cars

Alphabet Inc.’s Waymo self-driving-vehicle unit has begun charging passengers for rides, marking the technology’s first step into commercial service.

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Alphabet Inc.’s Waymo self-driving-vehicle unit has begun charging passengers for rides, marking the technology’s first step into commercial service.

Alphabet says it is testing pricing models in Phoenix, Ariz., where it has been testing self-driving cars since 2016. Waymo began deploying a fleet of 500 autonomous Chrysler Pacifica minivans there in April 2017, offering free rides to select consumers.

The company describes its latest step as the “very early days” of commercialization. Waymo continues to have a backup driver on board its autonomous vehicles to take control if necessary. But the company’s next move will be to enable consumers to ride in truly driverless vehicles.

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