L.A.'s New Robotaxi from Waymo Boasts Ten Windshield Wipers for Enhanced Visibility
The Waymo Zeekr RT: A Unique Take on Autonomous Vehicle Design
The streets of Los Angeles are becoming more familiar with an intriguing addition to its traffic – the Waymo Zeekr RT robotaxi. This all-electric van, a product of a subsidiary of China's Geely (also the owners of Volvo), is making waves in the autonomous ride-hailing industry.
One of the standout features of the Zeekr RT is its windshield wipers. Unlike traditional vehicles, the Zeekr RT sports eight tiny windshield wipers, four on the roof and one at the corner above each wheel. These wipers are not just for clearing rain and debris from the windshield, but they are also designed to clean the optical sensors of the Zeekr RT, a crucial aspect of its autonomous driving system.
The small size of these windshield wipers is due to the vehicle's highly aerodynamic, smooth, and sloped front windshield, which reduces the surface area needing coverage. Moreover, the self-driving system, equipped with extensive sensors like cameras, radar, and lidar, housed in conspicuous pods around the vehicle, likely reduces the need for large wipers as visibility for human drivers is less critical.
Smaller wipers also minimize aerodynamic drag and can reduce wear, noise, and maintenance costs, which is important for an autonomous robotaxi intended for frequent urban use. The cleaning system includes preventive measures such as coatings, heaters, and washers to ensure the sensors remain clear in adverse weather conditions and poor lighting.
Waymo has implemented a comprehensive automated onboard cleaning system for the Zeekr RT's sensors, with each wiper accompanied by a washer fluid spray nozzle. All the vehicle's wiper wash spray nozzles draw from a single central reservoir, ensuring efficient use of resources.
The Zeekr RT is produced exclusively for Waymo for autonomous ride-hailing purposes. While it is not yet available for public use, it is a new addition to Waymo's robotaxi fleet in Los Angeles. Its fleet depot can be found in some neighborhoods in Los Angeles, used for charging and upkeep.
The Zeekr RT, being the most common vehicle from a Chinese brand on American roads, is a testament to the growing influence of Chinese automotive companies in the global market. Its unique design choices, such as the small windshield wipers, demonstrate a focus on efficiency, sensor integration, and aerodynamic shape, trends that are becoming increasingly prevalent in modern EV and robotaxi design.
Despite the lack of detailed specifics on the exact wiper size or unique design features for the Waymo Zeekr RT in publicly indexed data, it is clear that this vehicle is a significant step forward in the development of autonomous vehicles. Its innovative design and technology make it an exciting addition to the streets of Los Angeles and a promising contender in the autonomous ride-hailing industry.
- The all-electric Zeekr RT, a product of Geely's subsidiary, brings a unique take on autonomous vehicle design to Los Angeles' streets.
- The Zeekr RT's windshield sports eight tiny wipers, four on the roof and one at each wheel corner, designed to clean optical sensors and wiper fluid spray nozzles, a part of its comprehensive automated onboard cleaning system.
- With Waymo's focus on efficient use of resources, all wiper wash spray nozzles on the Zeekr RT draw from a central reservoir.
- The Zeekr RT's exclusive production for Waymo showcases its role in autonomous ride-hailing purposes, demonstrating the growing influence of Chinese automotive companies.
- The small windshield wipers, the aerodynamic shape, and sensor integration in the Zeekr RT align with modern EV and robotaxi design trends.
- Its innovative features, like the small windshield wipers and extensive cleaning system, present the Zeekr RT as a significant step forward in autonomous vehicle development.
- With a focus on performance, safety, and lifestyle, the Zeekr RT offers a promising contender in the autonomous ride-hailing industry.
- Motortrend, a renowned automotive publication, might soon review this electric vehicle, providing more insights into its performance, features, and potential impact on the market.
