Ford Expands Self-Driving Tests to Austin Ahead of 2021 Commercial Launch
Ford adds Austin as the fifth city in its autonomous vehicle testing program, accelerating plans for a 2021 self-driving taxi and delivery service. The automaker takes a unique dual approach by separately developing its AV technology and business models.
Ford brings its autonomous vehicle testing program to Austin, making it the fifth city in the automaker's expanding self-driving network alongside Detroit, Miami, Pittsburgh, and Washington D.C. A recent job listing for an autonomous vehicles market specialist in Austin confirms the expansion, although Ford officially states only that it plans to announce its next deployment city by the end of the year. This move supports Ford's aggressive timeline to launch a commercial self-driving taxi and delivery service in 2021.
The automaker takes a unique approach compared to other self-driving companies by pursuing two parallel tracks that will eventually merge. Ford relies on Argo AI, a Pittsburgh-based company in which it invested $1 billion in 2017, to develop the virtual driver system and high-definition maps. At the same time, Ford separately tests its go-to-market strategy through pilot programs with major partners like Walmart, Domino's, and Postmates to refine its business model.
Ford follows a consistent rollout strategy as it enters new markets like Austin. Argo AI vehicles first map the city streets, while Ford deploys research vehicles to test various business cases with local companies. Additionally, Ford establishes local terminals or operations centers in each test city to store and manage the growing fleet of autonomous test vehicles as the 2021 commercial launch approaches.