In a highly anticipated session at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, held from October 27-29 in San Francisco, Waymo Co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana took the stage to share groundbreaking insights into the world of autonomous vehicles (AVs). Hosted at Moscone West, the event brought together tech innovators and venture capital leaders to discuss the future of technology, with Mawakana's talk being a standout highlight.
Mawakana, a driving force behind Waymo’s mission to commercialize the Waymo Driver, addressed the challenges and triumphs of scaling AV deployment. She emphasized the importance of building trust in self-driving technology, ensuring that it is not only innovative but also safe and reliable for widespread adoption.
During her discussion, she debunked common myths surrounding autonomous vehicles, shedding light on the real hurdles in achieving full autonomy. Mawakana highlighted Waymo's progress, noting how their technology has evolved from a concept into a viable transportation solution that is already transforming urban mobility.
Attendees were particularly captivated by her insights into the operational complexities of AV fleets. From navigating regulatory landscapes to perfecting unit economics, Mawakana painted a clear picture of what it takes to bring self-driving tech to the masses, a feat Waymo continues to lead in the industry.
As a key speaker on the AI Stage, alongside other industry pioneers like Wayve CEO Alex Kendall, Mawakana’s session underscored the pivotal role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of transportation. Her talk reinforced Waymo’s commitment to pushing boundaries while prioritizing safety and scalability.
For those eager to dive deeper into the future of AVs, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 remains the epicenter of such discussions. Mawakana’s revelations are a call to action for stakeholders to collaborate and innovate, ensuring that autonomous vehicles become a trusted reality sooner rather than later. Register for the event at TechCrunch Disrupt to witness such transformative conversations firsthand.
Maria Lourdes
