Waymo Co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana | Full Interview | Code 2021

Waymo Co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana discusses the autonomous vehicle industry, Waymo's approach, operational challenges, business model, and future plans in this comprehensive interview from Code 2021.

Key takeaways
  • Autonomous vehicle industry: The industry is evolving rapidly, with a focus on safety, scalability, and user experience.
  • Waymo’s approach: Waymo is focused on developing level 4 technology, which requires human oversight, and is testing in various environments, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
  • Operational challenges: Operational challenges include managing fleets, scaling technology, and addressing regulatory issues.
  • Business model: Waymo’s business model is centered around providing a safe and reliable transportation service, with revenue generated through ride-hailing and potential partnerships with automakers.
  • Technology development: Waymo is constantly learning and improving its technology through testing, simulation, and feedback from users.
  • User experience: The company is focused on creating a delightful user experience, with a goal of making transportation more accessible and convenient.
  • Partnerships: Waymo is open to partnering with automakers and other companies to accelerate the adoption of autonomous technology.
  • Regulatory environment: The regulatory environment is complex and evolving, with varying levels of support from different jurisdictions.
  • Investment and funding: Waymo has received funding from Alphabet and other investors, and is actively seeking partnerships and collaborations to support its growth.
  • Market expansion: Waymo is focused on expanding its market presence, with a goal of providing its service in multiple cities and countries.
  • Innovation: The company is committed to innovation, with a focus on developing new technologies and solutions to address complex problems.
  • User feedback: Waymo is actively seeking feedback from users to improve its service and technology.
  • Competitive landscape: The autonomous vehicle industry is highly competitive, with multiple companies developing similar technology.
  • Waymo’s differentiators: Waymo’s differentiators include its focus on level 4 technology, its commitment to safety, and its user-centric approach.