Waymo has introduced a subscription service called Waymo Premier, offering perks for frequent robotaxi users for $29.99 per month.
The membership includes 10% cash back on every trip, with the company saying riders can earn even higher rewards during periods of heavy demand.
Benefits for subscribers
Members of the new program will receive:
- 10% cash back on every ride.
- Higher rewards during busy periods.
- Access to shorter virtual queues.
- Five free ride cancellations each month.
- The ability to request a Waymo vehicle in cities where the service still operates with a waitlist.
Waymo said the pricing and benefits were designed after considering feedback from riders.
Not available in Austin and Atlanta
The company told TechCrunch that Waymo Premier will not initially be offered in Austin and Atlanta.
In those cities, Waymo’s robotaxi service is available exclusively through the Uber app.
Expansion plans continue
The membership launch comes as Waymo accelerates its expansion across the United States and prepares for its first international rollout later this year.
The company has also begun deploying its latest vehicle, the Zeekr-built “Ojai” van, in:
- Los Angeles
- Phoenix
- San Francisco
New source of revenue
The subscription service could open up an additional revenue stream as Waymo scales its operations.
Its largest partner, Uber, has built a sizeable membership business through Uber One.
Uber said in May that more than 50 million users subscribe to the service, which costs $9.99 a month or $96 annually.
Uber One members receive benefits including:
- Discounts on Uber Eats orders.
- Reduced hotel booking costs.
- Waived delivery fees.
- Access to promotions from third-party partners.
Loyalty programs have proved lucrative
Membership programs have become a major source of income for airlines.
According to the report, the four largest U.S. airlines would have posted losses in 2024 without the contribution from their loyalty businesses.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, several airlines also used those programs as collateral to secure emergency federal loans.
Riders willing to pay more
Although Waymo Premier costs roughly three times more than Uber One, the company said rider data indicates that customers are willing to pay a premium for robotaxi services compared with traditional ride-hailing options.
TL;DR
Waymo has launched a $29.99-a-month membership program offering 10% cash back, priority access and free cancellations for robotaxi users. The initiative comes as the company expands in the U.S. and prepares for an international debut.
AI summary
- Waymo launched the Waymo Premier subscription service.
- Members pay $29.99 a month.
- Subscribers receive 10% cash back and priority access.
- The program is unavailable in Austin and Atlanta.
- Waymo is expanding its robotaxi operations and preparing for international markets.
