Waymo testing approval sparks mixed reactions from Sacramento travelers, drivers
Waymo’s plan to begin testing autonomous vehicles in Sacramento, Solano, and Yolo counties is drawing strong, mixed reactions from travelers and rideshare drivers who worry the expansion could upend their jobs. Right now, anyone opening the Waymo app in Sacramento sees a message saying they’re outside the service area. However, that will change once testing begins in the three counties. “It’s the future and it’s most likely something that’s going to be around much more,” traveler Yuri Volnov said. “So I think it’s good to get prepared for it and have them in the area.” Waymo announced the expansion after receiving DMV approval to test self-driving cars in Northern and Southern California. Some travelers said they’re excited to try the vehicles. “I know a lot of people who come to California, they’re like, ‘oh, we get to do this fun little situation where we get to be in a car that doesn’t have a driver,’” rideshare driver Brittany Arnold said.