Archive — US — techcrunch
Waymo bought Apple’s self-driving car proving ground for $220M
Waymo has acquired a 5,500-acre self-driving car proving ground in Arizona from a company linked to Apple for $220 million. This facility, featuring various test courses, will enhance Waymo's autonomous vehicle testing capabilities and support its fleet expansion. Previously owned by Apple, the property was essential for its now-terminated Project Titan.
Key points
- Waymo purchased a large proving ground in Arizona for $220 million.
- The facility includes a city course, vehicle dynamics area, an oval track, and a freeway course for autonomous testing.
- The acquisition supports Waymo's goal to enhance its self-driving systems and testing capabilities.
- Apple previously bought this property in 2021 for $125 million but ended its car project, Project Titan, in early 2024.
- Waymo is expanding its fleet to tens of thousands of robotaxis, reflecting significant growth in its service markets across the U.S.
Why it matters
- The acquisition aligns with 2025 IT Trends focusing on the development and integration of autonomous vehicles in urban planning.
- Waymo's expansion showcases the tech industry's shift towards automated transportation services.
- The trend of large companies like Waymo and Apple investing in autonomous technologies illustrates the competitive landscape in the self-driving car market.
The acquisition of the Arizona proving ground marks a significant step in Waymo's expansion strategy, enhancing its capabilities and responding to the evolving landscape of autonomous vehicle technologies.