Why Waymo could face roadblocks

Misreading local politics could foil Waymo's ambitious growth plans, erasing the giant lead it has over competitors.

State of play: While self-driving cars are permitted in about half the country, the laws would have to be changed in places like Washington, D.C., and New York, where a human operator is still required behind the wheel.

• In other states, the law is silent on driverless cars, which means it's open to interpretation — and debate.
• More worrisome for Waymo, potentially: City leaders in some places, including Boston and Seattle, are proposing new ordinances that would prohibit autonomous vehicles.

Research from UC San Diego found people are more worried about job loss from robotaxis than safety.

• 85% said driverless cars would mean unemployment for ridesharing and delivery drivers.
• "While the hardware is improving and maturing, the public receptivity to this technology is actually anchored by economic and social anxieties, rather than just safety concerns," lead author Behram Wali told Axios.

The intrigue: Waymo replaced its global head of public policy last year to deal with the mounting headwinds.

• Justin Kintz previously led the policy team at Uber during its early growth period, when the ride-hailing network was unwelcome just about everywhere.

• At Waymo, he will likely draw on that experience to try to push local legislation that is more favorable toward robotaxis.

What they're saying: "The biggest hurdle Waymo faces is not understanding local politics," says AV policy expert Grayson Brulte, founder and CEO of The Road to Autonomy, a strategic advisory firm.

• "They're going into markets where the policy is not ready yet," he said.
• It can take years to pass new legislation in many states, which could delay Waymo's plans.

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