Google's New Autonomous Minivans Will Be Publicly Tested This Month

Self-driving minivans from Google's Waymo division will be on public roads later this month. The modified Chrysler Pacifica vehicles were revealed in December. They're going to roll out in Mountain View (California) and Phoenix (Arizona).

Waymo's launch of the minivans was discussed at the North American International Auto Show. It also gave the public a greater look at the vehicles during the event.

A significant change accompanying the minivans is that this is the first time Waymo will produce all the self-driving tech internally. The Google spin-off is making its own cameras, sensors, and mapping technology. None of the core components will come from third-parties, demonstrating a greater level of capability.

Manufacturing its own components also allows Waymo to greatly reduce costs and it'll have more control over the technology.