Google Comes Up With Waymo: Well, It’s A Minivan!

After loads of tests and teasings, Google showed off its autonomous minivan this weekend. The newly established Waymo, self-driving company, teamed up Fiat Chrysler to build first Chrysler Pasifica hybrid-powered vans. “A new WAY forward in MObility”, such a mission Waymo declares, to make self-driving vehicles available for all.

First 100 Chrysler Pasifica minivans have been added to Waymo’s test fleet, along with custom-built prototypes and Lexus SUVs. According to the words of John Krafcik, Waymo’s CEO, the next-gen self-driving Pasificas to hit the roads by the end of 2017. Krafcik also laid emphasis on the fact Waymo focuses on high technology rather than making its fully-own cars. The “Golden 100” vehicles are equipped with loads of radars, cameras, on-board telematics and sensors to observe roads in order to help drivers navigate through routine traffic. Under the hood, the plug-in powertrain includes a 16kWh Lithium-ion battery along with a 3.6-liter Pentastar power unit.