Lyft and May Mobility’s autonomous hybrid Toyota Sienna minivans are open to Atlantans starting this week.
The companies are kicking off their first pilot program in Atlanta, though the rides will feature “a standby operator present in each vehicle” to assist if needed and answer rider questions.
“Standby operators are fully trained to take the wheel and drive manually during initial trips, as needed, and will intervene less over time as service is optimized,” according to a news release.
This news comes after Uber and Waymo rolled out its autonomous vehicle program in Atlanta earlier this summer without human operators.
The rides are available to Lyft users choosing standard or “Wait & Save” rides in the Midtown area as well as Virginia Highlands, Old Fourth Ward and Inman Park, the companies said.
Credit: Lyft
Credit: Lyft
The seemingly sudden ride of autonomous vehicles on in-town Atlanta streets actually comes eight years after state leaders enabled this sea change by passing a bill allowing self-driving cars to operate on public roads.
In fact, May Mobility already operates a driverless service in Peachtree Corners along Technology Parkway.
“Atlanta’s selection as the inaugural market for this partnership reflects the city’s and state’s growing reputation as a center for transportation technology advancement,” the release stated.
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