New Waymo Tests Target Wet Florida Weather
Alphabet Inc.’s Waymo unit is expanding tests of its self-driving car fleet to Florida this month to evaluate performance in heavy rainstorms.
Alphabet Inc.’s Waymo unit is expanding tests of its self-driving car fleet to Florida this month to evaluate performance in heavy rainstorms.
![](https://d2n4wb9orp1vta.cloudfront.net/cms/brand/ABG/2019-ABG/waymo-rain-tests-o.jpg;maxWidth=385)
The tests will be focused in Miami, which Waymo notes is one of the wettest cities in the U.S. during late summer and early autumn. Such conditions can affect the actions of other road users and the performance of the various sensors used by autonomous vehicles to map their surroundings.
Initially, Waymo will test its specially equipped Chrysler Pacifica (pictured) and Jaguar I-Pace models on a closed course in Naples. Testing will then move to public roads in Miami with a safety driver onboard. Additional tests will be conducted on highways between Miami and other major Florida cities.
Waymo has been testing vehicles in other states for several years, including Arizona, California, Michigan and Washington.
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