AUTONEWS

GM's subsidiary in the development of autopilot technology officially launched a commercial service in the United States

Cruise, the division of General Motors that specializes in developing autopilot technology, has officially launched a commercial service – this week it began providing driverless taxi services in San Francisco and charging passengers for it.

According to Cruise, most trips take place in the northwest part of the city, but the company plans to expand both the geography and the range of services. According to a permit issued in early June, commercial passenger transport services during the day are provided only if the driver is behind the wheel, although the car controls him, and at night orders are already completed fully autonomously. Tests of the service began in November last year and, in February, the preliminary registration of users in the ordering system was opened, and the first passengers made their trips – until then still free of charge.

It is worth mentioning that robot taxi services are cheaper than traditional transport. Cruise gave the following costing example. With a 2.08 km trip, the trip will cost $0.90 per mile, $0.40 per minute plus $5 landing (base rate) and 1.5% city tax. A total trip of 1.3 miles will cost you $8.72, while Uber will cost you no less than $10.41 for the same service.

Robotaxi passengers can now also bring an escort, although previously it was only possible to transport the account holder in person. The order is made through the Cruise – Driverless Rides app for iOS, although it can only be downloaded through a personal invitation link for city residents who have previously registered in the system.

Image source: getcruise.com