Waymo's latest robotaxi, the Ojai, now comes equipped with Google's Gemini AI assistant, enabling passengers to interact with the vehicle using natural voice commands.
The Ojai, built in China by Zeekr and designed from the start for autonomous driving, receives its Waymo hardware after arriving in the US.
Unlike the Jaguar I-Pace conversions, the Ojai was purpose-built for robotaxi service.
What Gemini Can Do
Riders can ask the assistant to adjust the climate control, get facts about local landmarks, or even learn a new language during the ride.
The AI responds to a wide range of queries.
Waymo has also updated the Ojai's three in-car screens.
The rear right passenger sees dedicated controls on the nearest screen, while the other two display a simplified trip overview.
The screens also allow media playback changes.
For privacy concerns, Gemini remains inactive until a rider initiates interaction, ensuring the AI is not always listening.
The Ojai's rollout has faced challenges. Earlier this year, one unit swerved off the road and hit parked vehicles in California.
However, it was quickly determined that a person, not the autonomous system, was driving at the time.
