Waymo Takes Its Self-Driving Cars to Virginia
Waymo has begun mapping areas in Virginia, specifically Alexandria and Arlington, as part of its preparations for potential autonomous vehicle services. Although self-driving cars are not yet permitted in the state, the mapping is a crucial first step towards launching a robotaxi service if regulations allow. The company currently operates in 11 US metros and is working to expand its services to additional cities worldwide.
- ▪Waymo is mapping Alexandria and Arlington in Virginia to prepare for potential autonomous vehicle services.
- ▪Self-driving cars are not currently allowed to operate in Virginia, but mapping is necessary for future robotaxi services.
- ▪Waymo operates in 11 US metros and is looking to expand to 20 more cities, including international locations.
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Aarian MarshallGearMay 27, 2026 7:00 AMWaymo Takes Its Self-Driving Cars to VirginiaThe company is mapping Alexandria and, soon, Arlington—right across from the power center of Washington, DC.Photograph: Eric Thayer/Getty ImagesCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storySelf-driving cars aren’t yet permitted to operate in Virginia. But Alphabet-owned Waymo began transporting its cars to the state last week, a Waymo representative told Virginia officials, to map Arlington and Alexandria, in the northern part of the state.For most autonomous vehicle companies, mapping, or the creation of sensor-aided and ultra-precise digital representations of streets and the features around them, is the first step required to launch a local robotaxi service.
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