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I've heard that just acquiring and setting up the real estate and setting up depots takes a while. After all there aren't a bunch of robotaxi hubs sitting aroun
by minwcnt5 2y ago
I've heard that just acquiring and setting up the real estate and setting up depots takes a while. After all there aren't a bunch of robotaxi hubs sitting around in cities waiting to be bought or leased. That's where Tesla could have an advantage (if they could get robotaxis working), since in theory they could bootstrap using their supercharger network.
- xnx 2y agoI haven't read much about Waymo depots, but from what I can tell they are : empty parking lot + chargers. If so, that seems like there would be ample options for this in almost any city. Amazon built a charging network in short order (https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=40083622 https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=40083622). Perhaps, their peak (kWh) charging requirements are higher than I would guess.
- AStonesThrow 2y agoNope, Waymo depots are secured garages in industrial zones. I've been to two in the Phoenix area (Lost & Found FTW). They are secure facilities near freight train tracks, and their neighbors are logistics companies. I saw Waymo vehicles coming and going, but I did not spot their point of entry into the building. There was no "big parking lot" full of Waymos or chargers visible from the outside. The visitor/guest entrance is just a security desk and a waiting room with about 3 chairs. Even during business hours, the front door may be locked. You announce your purpose and the security guard admits you. I was once told that I'd need to wait outside, no problem: the weather was fine, and picnic tables were nearby. Once an employee retrieved my Lost & Found items, I was sent on my way.