BusinessJuly 10, 2026

robotaxi

/ˈroʊboʊˌtæksi/

Definition

An autonomous, self-driving vehicle that operates as a taxi service without a human driver.

Etymology

A portmanteau formed by combining 'robot'—derived from the Czech word 'robota' meaning forced labor—and 'taxi', which is a shortened form of 'taximeter cab'.

In the news

The term appears in the article's headlines regarding Waymo expanding its autonomous transportation services into San Diego. It highlights the practical, commercial application of self-driving technology in the California market.

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Los Angeles Times

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