Miami becomes newest testbed as waymo deploys driverless robotaxi fleet

Writer: Pablo Marquez

December 2025 — Waymo has begun operating fully autonomous robotaxis in Miami, marking a significant step in its national expansion. The driverless phase begins with employee-only rides and is expected to open to the public in 2026.

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Waymo says its new generalizable Driver, powered by the company’s AI platform, has reached the level of maturity needed to scale into five new cities: Miami, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando. The company emphasized its “safety- and community-first approach,” including a standardized playbook designed to ensure a smooth transition to driverless vehicles.

The rollout in Miami is notable because the vehicles operate without safety drivers or in-vehicle monitors, a capability that now sets Waymo apart among U.S. robotaxi operators. According to Reuters, Waymo’s fleet exceeds 1,500 vehicles nationwide.

Local media outlets have already documented fully autonomous Waymo vehicles moving through Miami.

In December 2024, Waymo announced it would redeploy its all-electric Jaguar I-PACE fleet on local streets in early 2025 ahead of the commercial launch. Waymo also reaffirmed its partnership with mobility fintech Moove, which will manage fleet operations, maintenance, charging logistics, and depot oversight for the Miami service. The company has framed its Miami expansion as both a technological advance and a climate-conscious move aligned with the city’s clean-energy goals.

“Fully autonomous driving technology offers a safe and convenient option to the people of Miami. I’m so pleased to welcome Waymo to our city. Waymo’s commitment to sustainability with their all-electric fleet is the perfect mobility option to our city as we continue to prioritize low cost, clean energy,” said Francis Suarez, mayor of Miami, back in Dec. 2024.

Waymo leadership has also set ambitious growth targets. At TechCrunch Disrupt, co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana said the company expects to offer 1 million trips per week across its network by the end of 2026. 

The expansion comes amid intensifying competition. Tesla has signaled plans for a robotaxi service in Miami, though a timeline has not been released.

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