The city of Chandler is on the move, quite literally, with the introduction of Waymo's autonomous vehicles (AVs) to its public transit offering. In what's being hailed as a pioneer move, Chandler Flex, the city's microtransit service operated by Via, will now include Waymo's driverless tech to shoulder the load during peak transit times. Starting Sept. 18, if you're hailing a ride through Chandler Flex, you might just be ferried to your destination by one of Waymo's AVs instead of a traditional vehicle.
It's all about choice here, as riders can opt in for an autonomous ride via the Waymo app — it's either go with the flow, or book the old-fashioned way, a choice that comes when the demand spikes. According to Chandleraz.gov, Mayor Kevin Hartke is buzzing about the integration, "Chandler has always been a hub for innovation, and we’re proud to be the first city to bring Waymo’s AVs into our public transit network." How's that for riding into the future?
Getting on board with Chandler Flex is a breeze. You simply download the Chandler Flex app, punch in your details, and wait to be matched with a driver, or now, possibly a Waymo AV. Those matched with a Waymo are then prompted to book through the Waymo app. The service, which runs Monday through Friday from 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., only sets you back $2 a pop, but for a limited time, the Waymo rides are going for half the price — just $1. Even tech-averse folks aren't left behind, as rides can be booked over the phone by dialing 602-932-0291.
Behind the scenes, Via's Chief Revenue Officer Michael Vaccarino offered up some insights in a statement obtained by Chandleraz.gov: "Our long-term partnership with Chandler has already shown how technology strengthens public transit." He adds that working with governments is "core to what we do," and that city collaboration can bring autonomous vehicles as part of a reliable grid. The move also signifies Chandler's ongoing effort to be a smart city that not only fosters innovation but practically implements it for the benefit of its residents.
Looking to catch a lift with Chandler Flex or curious about this foray into AV-backed public transit? Further details are a click away— just visit Chandler Flex for more info. And here's betting Chandler's steps today could be the leap for other cities tomorrow, as the hum of electric engines blends into the daily commute, sans driver.
