Waymo to deploy 20,000 Jaguar I-Pace EVs over two years

The fleet is expected to drive a million autonomous trips in a typical day.

Waymo and Jaguar have announced a partnership to develop autonomous I-Pace EVs.

The current Waymo fleet is populated with Lexus RX450h crossovers and Chrysler Pacifica minivans. The company so far has declined to establish an exclusive deal with any automaker, however, leaving the door open for the Jaguar tie-up and similar ventures involving other vehicles.

"Imagine a world where you can take a self-driving minivan to the baseball game with family, and a self-driving I-PACE home after a night out — in both cases, a car perfectly suited for your needs," Waymo says.

The I-Pace is billed as a natural fit for a premium taxi service with its sleek appearance and fast-charge battery.

The companies will add up to 20,000 autonomous I-Pace crossovers in the next two years. The full fleet is estimated to support around a million trips in a typical day. Testing will begin later this year.

Waymo suggests it will continue establishing more partnerships with automakers, focusing on expanding rider experiences.

"That means riders will be able to choose from a broad array of options that will match their very specific needs: one for working remotely as you commute, one for dining with friends, even one designed for napping!" the company adds.