Waymo is expanding its autonomous vehicle services to Portland, Oregon, collaborating with state and city officials and community partners to establish a regulatory framework for deployment. Manual driving operations will commence as part of the groundwork for future service in the city.

Waymo states that expecting driverless taxis to respect bike lanes is unrealistic, as customers prefer being dropped off in those areas. The Highway Code prohibits motorists from driving or parking in cycle lanes during operational times, but Waymo argues that customer convenience takes precedence.

Waymo will commence fully autonomous operations using its 6th-generation Driver, aimed at expanding its technology to more riders in various cities. The new system features a streamlined configuration that reduces costs while upholding high safety standards and is designed for long-term growth across multiple vehicle platforms.

Waymo is seeking to raise approximately $16 billion in a financing round that would value the autonomous driving unit at nearly $110 billion. Alphabet Inc. plans to contribute about $13 billion, with additional funding from investors including Sequoia Capital, DST Global, and Dragoneer Investment Group.