At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 in Las Vegas, Waymo and Zeekr have finally unveiled their highly anticipated robotaxi, dubbed the Zeekr RT. The autonomous vehicle, first announced in 2021, has been in development for several years, with prototypes being tested on public roads in San Francisco and Phoenix since last year.

The Zeekr RT boasts an impressive suite of sensors, including 13 cameras, 4 lidar units, 6 radar systems, and an array of external audio receivers. The sensors are strategically placed around the vehicle, with a package of sensors located at the front side of the vehicle, above the tire, featuring two cameras, radar, and a small wiper designed to keep the sensors clear of debris. Another package of sensors at the back of the robotaxi includes cameras, radar, lidar, and a cleaning system.

One of the standout features of the Zeekr RT is its unique sensor-cleaning system, designed from scratch by Waymo. This system ensures that the sensors remain clear of debris, allowing the vehicle to operate safely and efficiently. The same system is also used on Waymo's Jaguar I-Pace robotaxis.

According to Zeekr, mass production of the Zeekr RT will begin later this year, with deliveries to Waymo scheduled to start soon. Initially, the robotaxis will be used for testing, but eventually, they will become part of Waymo's commercial fleet. Waymo has been testing elements of the Zeekr robotaxi since early 2024, starting with the base chassis and later equipping it with sensors.

Currently, Waymo is testing the prototype Zeekr RTs on public roads in San Francisco and Phoenix, with human safety drivers behind the wheel. Once the production-intent robotaxi is received, Waymo will continue testing and validating them before removing the human safety driver. The company is likely to follow its established path, testing the Zeekr RT in driverless mode before opening it up to the public.

The unveiling of the Zeekr RT at CES 2025 marks a significant milestone in the development of autonomous vehicles. With its advanced sensor suite and unique cleaning system, the robotaxi is poised to revolutionize the transportation industry. As Waymo continues to test and refine its technology, we can expect to see more widespread adoption of autonomous vehicles in the years to come.

In the broader context, the Zeekr RT represents a significant step forward in the development of autonomous transportation. As companies like Waymo continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with autonomous technology, we can expect to see a shift towards more sustainable, efficient, and safe transportation options. The implications of this technology extend far beyond the automotive industry, with potential applications in logistics, public transportation, and beyond.