V5 was based on the Chrysler Pacifica architecture and represented the fifth generation of Waymo’s self-driving technology. It became the first generation to be deployed as a fully autonomous ride-hailing service without a human driver. Operating in Chandler, Arizona, and the surrounding metropolitan area, the service transported approximately 1,000 passengers per day.
I was responsible for all aspects of design development and studio engineering, helping bring the vehicle from concept through development and deployment.
Our team had to be resourceful and diligent in quickly identifying the optimal location for the overhead console. We spent many hours in the vehicle evaluating and testing camera placement while carefully considering passenger ingress and egress, visibility, ergonomics, and overhead clearance.
We worked closely with an automotive Tier 1 supplier to develop production-ready parts. We also coordinated with UXR and Legal teams to ensure that Braille content and the rider interface were accessible, intuitive, and properly integrated into the overall design.
