The Google self-driving car project has been relaunched as an independent company called Waymo.
Waymo’s focus is on fully self-driving cars that operate without steering wheels or human guidance. Its test fleet currently includes modified Lexus SUVs and custom-built prototype vehicles. The company plans to add modified Chrysler Pacifica minivans soon.
Chrysler Pacifica Minivan Joins Google’s Self-Driving Car Test Fleet
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) will integrate Google’s self-driving technology into all-new 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans to expand Google’s existing self-driving test program.
This is the first time that Google has worked directly with an automaker to integrate its self-driving system, including its sensors and software, into a passenger vehicle.
By later this year, around 100 Pacifica minivans will be built for Google’s self-driving technology. Google will integrate the suite of sensors and computers that the vehicles will rely on to navigate roads autonomously.
Google, which is testing its self-driving cars in four U.S. cities, said the self-driving Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans will be tested on its private test track in California prior to operating on public roads.
