Exploring the possibilities of autonomous transportation, the SHAED team recently embarked on an unforgettable journey—our very first ride in a Waymo self-driving vehicle. Here’s a play-by-play account of what went down and how it felt to experience the future of mobility firsthand.
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Setting the Stage: Anticipation in the Air
The day started with a mix of excitement and curiosity as we gathered at the designated pickup location. For some of us, this was our first encounter with an autonomous vehicle, while others couldn’t wait to see how Waymo’s technology performed in a real-world setting.
As the sleek, white Waymo vehicle pulled up, it was clear we were in for something special. Cameras, sensors, and an unmistakable lidar system gave the car an ultra-modern feel—this wasn’t just any ride; it was a peek into the future.
The Welcome Inside
Getting into the Waymo car was an experience in itself. Instead of a driver, there was an intuitive screen that welcomed us and guided us through the ride. With a quick tap, we confirmed our destination, and the vehicle sprang to life—smoothly merging into traffic, no human intervention required.
As the car began to move, there was a brief moment of realization: this was a ride controlled entirely by cutting-edge technology. The excitement quickly overtook any hesitation, and we settled in to enjoy the trip.
On the Move: Smooth and Sophisticated
The Waymo car navigated the roads with ease, stopping gracefully at traffic lights, yielding for pedestrians, and seamlessly merging into lanes. The screen inside displayed the car’s vision—a fascinating digital map showing nearby vehicles, cyclists, and obstacles. It was like watching the car think in real time.
At one point, the car encountered a stopped vehicle blocking its path. Without hesitation, it carefully calculated a way to go around it, ensuring a smooth continuation of the journey. This display of adaptability left us thoroughly impressed—it was as if the car had an innate sense of caution and awareness.
However, not everything went perfectly. There was a moment when the car became momentarily stuck in an intersection, attempting to navigate a complex traffic scenario. Watching the vehicle recalibrate its actions in real time was fascinating, though it was also a reminder that even advanced technology faces challenges in unpredictable environments.
There was something surreal about watching the steering wheel turn on its own and seeing the car make decisions without any human input. The ride was so smooth and predictable that it felt easy to forget there wasn’t a driver. Some of us even joked that the Waymo car might be a better driver than we were!
Before we knew it, the car gently slowed and pulled up to our destination, ending the ride just as flawlessly as it began. Exiting the vehicle, there was a collective sense of wonder—we had just taken a trip powered entirely by artificial intelligence.
Reflections on the Journey
This first Waymo trip was more than just a ride; it was a glimpse into how autonomous technology is reshaping transportation. It raised questions about accessibility, sustainability, and the role of self-driving cars in our daily lives. For the SHAED team, it was a moment of inspiration—a reminder of why we’re working toward a future where technology and mobility come together to create smarter, more sustainable solutions.
10/10 – Would Waymo again!
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Written by Taylor Steele
January 2024
