Dec 9 2013: Google bus blocked in San Francisco protest vs gentrification

Back in December 9 2013: Google bus blocked in San Francisco protest vs gentrification

Protesters delayed a Google commuter bus in San Francisco on Monday, angry that the influx of affluent tech workers is pushing up the cost of living in the city. The demonstration was organised by advocacy group Heart of the City, which is opposed to private commuter buses which it says remove potential customers from the city's cash-strapped public transport system.

However, supporters of the buses say they help to reduce the number of cars on the road. Graffiti has recently appeared around the city complaining about the buses with one notice reading: "Google scum".

Fast forward to August 9 2023: San Francisco Balks at Expanding Driverless Car Services on City’s Roads

The California Public Utilities Commission will vote on a plan to let Cruise and Waymo offer 24/7 driverless rides in San Francisco, but local officials and activists worry about the potential impact on traffic and safety.

The decision on whether to allow the expansion could signal whether self-driving cars can eventually become a common form of transportation in other cities. Currently, Cruise can offer paid rides in certain areas of the city at night, while Waymo offers free rides.

Will driverless cars buzzing around San Francisco's streets eventually pay off the billions invested by the tech and auto industries?