en.Wedoany.com Reported - Waymo has launched its next-generation autonomous taxi, the Ojai, based on the Zeekr platform, which is already being tested in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. The initial fleet includes over 100 new vehicles. Compared to the thousands of existing Jaguar I-PACE units, the Ojai features significant adjustments in sensor configuration and interior design to optimize cost and operational efficiency.
The Ojai is manufactured by Chinese automaker Geely on its Zeekr platform, after which Waymo installs the autonomous driving system at its factory in Arizona, USA. Waymo spokesperson Sandy Karp stated that the software, sensors, and computing systems that collect data and enable the vehicle to drive autonomously were all developed in the United States. Last year, the US banned most connected vehicle technology from China and Russia, a policy backdrop that made it necessary to complete the technological development domestically. The Ojai simplifies its sensor suite, reducing the number of cameras from 29 to 13, lidar sensors from 5 to 4, while keeping the radar count unchanged at 6.
In terms of interior, the Ojai eliminates the leather seats and carpet found in the Jaguar I-PACE, opting for fabric seats and a plastic floor for easier cleaning. The seat-back pockets have been removed to reduce the likelihood of passengers leaving items behind. The vehicle retains cup holders and is equipped with sliding doors and a lower step-in height to facilitate entry and exit for children and individuals with limited mobility; the sliding doors can also be closed remotely. Inside, there are three large touchscreens for navigation, music, temperature, and seat controls, which automatically dim at night. Large grab handles and braille are provided near the doors, and the rear seats continue the design of tinted privacy glass.
A test ride experience shows that the Ojai offers significantly better legroom than traditional models, with a relatively smooth ride. During an approximately 45-minute, 4-mile trip, only one sudden braking event occurred due to another vehicle cutting in. The vehicle experienced some jolts while searching for a parking spot during San Francisco's peak traffic hours. The Ojai comes with a full-size trunk, but due to a recent incident, Waymo has disabled highway operation, making it unsuitable for airport trips for now. It will become a viable alternative to Uber and Lyft only after this issue is resolved. The sensors feature self-heating capabilities to clear ice and snow, making them suitable for winter regions such as Denver, Detroit, and Minneapolis.
The Ojai is powered by the sixth-generation Waymo Driver software, while the I-PACE remains on the fifth generation. Compared to competitor Zoox, the Ojai performs better in terms of seat comfort, trunk space, and vehicle availability. Zoox's service in Las Vegas currently has limited availability, some route planning issues, and the vehicle lacks a trunk, requiring luggage to be stored inside the cabin.
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