Waymo introduces 6th generation autonomous driving system to robotaxis, enabling safer driving in rain, snow and pitch-black roads
Waymo, a ride-hailing and robotaxi company, has announced the launch of its sixth-generation Waymo Driver, a fully autonomous driving system that will enable safer service even in extreme winter weather.
Beginning fully autonomous operations with the 6th-generation Waymo Driver
Waymo begins deploying next-gen Ojai robotaxis to extend its US lead
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/12/waymo-begins-deploying-next-gen-ojai-robotaxis-to-extend-its-us-lead.html
Waymo launching China-made van that won't fail in rain, snow • The Register
https://www.theregister.com/2026/02/12/waymo_6th_gen_autonomous_driving_system/
The 6th generation Waymo Driver is an autonomous driving system equipped with more advanced sensors and vision systems than ever before. The vision systems surpass the capabilities of human vision and standard automotive cameras, allowing the system to read important information like traffic light colors and road signs, even when exposed to oncoming high beams and emergency vehicle warning lights.
Below is a video comparing what the vision system (left) sees with what a conventional automotive camera (right) sees.
The bright field of view is achieved by a 17-megapixel high-resolution sensor, which captures the vehicle's surroundings in high resolution and high dynamic range using fewer sensors than 5- or 8-megapixel sensors. While previous cameras can be affected by rain, ice, and road grime, Waymo features an integrated cleaning system to maintain visibility. In situations where camera visibility may be limited, LiDAR and radar provide redundancy to maintain the Waymo Driver's awareness.
Another feature is that Waymo focuses on 'building an autonomous driving system' rather than 'developing an autonomous vehicle,' and is designing a versatile, integrated autonomous driving system that can adapt to various platforms and use cases. It is possible to generalize AI by reconfiguring sensors to suit the vehicle.
The sixth-generation Waymo Driver is being rolled out in the Ojai electric minivan, developed in collaboration with Chinese automaker Geely, and is also being deployed in the Hyundai IONIQ 5. Regarding concerns raised about partnering with a Chinese company, Waymo spokesperson Sandy Karp told CNBC that the system will only be used as a base vehicle and that Geely will not be given access to its autonomous driving technology, sensor data, or LiDAR technology.
'Robo-taxis already using the Jaguar I-PACE will continue to be operated with the 5th generation Waymo Driver. 'Waymo has consistently operated with a mixed fleet for many years, including the transition from the 4th generation Waymo Driver used in the Chrysler Pacifica to the 5th generation Waymo Driver used in the Jaguar I-PACE,' Karp said.
Ojai with the 6th generation Waymo Driver will be tested by Waymo employees in some areas, including San Francisco and Los Angeles, and is expected to become available to the general public in the second half of 2026.
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