Robot taxis Cruise and Waymo have received approval to operate unrestricted in San Francisco, making it the first city globally with two operational driverless taxi fleets.
The decision by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) aims at advancing autonomous vehicle technology, but it has also stirred debate about safety and preparedness.
Although city officials assure that safety regulations will be rigorously enforced, emergency responders worry that the integration of more self-driving vehicles could complicate rescue efforts during accidents.
Proponents of the expansion argue that robo-taxis could reduce traffic congestion and emissions.