Google halts development of its own self-driving car

Google has been working on self-driving vehicles for some time now, with plans to release a new car within the next year or two. However, a new report from The Information claims that Google is backing down from its plans for a new car developed in-house.

Alphabet has backed off plans to develop a revolutionary car without a steering wheel or pedals, at least for now, according to people close to the closely-watched project. Instead, the self-driving car pioneer has settled on a more practical effort to partner with automakers to make a vehicle that drives itself but has traditional features for human drivers.

Instead, Google will continue to partner with car manufacturers, such as Chrysler, to make self-driving cars. The report also states that Google will be ready to launch an “autonomous ride-sharing service by the end of next year”.

With Uber already testing out self-driving services, Google has some work to do if it truly wants to make an impact in this space. However, if anyone is going to get it done right, it will be Google, even if it takes a little bit longer than others.

Google is expected to be hosting an event regarding the self-driving car project later today. Make sure you stay tuned to Phandroid so that you get all the news as it becomes available.