Ride-hailing drivers in Phoenix and Los Angeles are raising concerns about declining earnings as Waymo's driverless taxis gain traction in their markets.
Jason D., a 50-year-old full-time Uber driver in Phoenix, reports increasing challenges in maintaining his income due to multiple factors, including heightened competition, reduced fares, and fewer tips. The introduction of Waymo One robotaxis has intensified these challenges in what he describes as "an already competitive Phoenix market."
The impact comes as Waymo One reports providing over 100,000 paid rides weekly across Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Phoenix. The company plans to expand to Atlanta and Austin in early 2024, with services becoming available through the Uber app.
While the exact impact of robotaxis on driver earnings remains unclear, experts predict a growing effect as autonomous vehicles become more prevalent and fares decrease. Carl Benedikt Frey from the Oxford Internet Institute draws parallels to Uber's initial impact on traditional taxi drivers, which led to a 10% reduction in earnings.
Some drivers have found ways to adapt. Brad, a Los Angeles-based Uber driver, focuses on airport trips - currently off-limits to robotaxis in Los Angeles and San Francisco. However, Waymo One already serves Phoenix airports, raising concerns among driver advocacy groups who consider airport routes essential for driver income.
Safety concerns persist among some drivers. Jason reports witnessing concerning behavior from autonomous vehicles, including sudden lane changes and traffic violations. In June 2023, Waymo One recalled 672 driverless taxis following an incident where one vehicle struck a utility pole in Phoenix.
John, a 43-year-old Phoenix driver for both Uber and Lyft, monitors passenger feedback about driverless alternatives. He notes that Waymo One's competitive pricing sometimes undercuts traditional ride-hailing services, potentially affecting customer choices.
While Lyft states its intention to build a hybrid network combining human drivers and autonomous vehicles, and has partnered with Mobileye for autonomous deployment, some drivers remain skeptical about their future in an increasingly automated industry.
The expansion of robotaxi services continues to spark debate about the future of ride-hailing, balancing technological advancement with the livelihoods of human drivers who have built careers in the industry.
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