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DENVER (KDVR) — Waymo, the autonomous driving company, is expanding to Denver, marking what state and city leaders call the first step toward a fully driverless ride-hailing service in Colorado.

For now, the rollout is an exploratory phase focused on mapping and testing the technology. Denver becomes the sixth city where the company is deploying its fleet.

Waymo’s all-electric vehicles use the latest “Waymo Driver” system, which the company says powers hundreds of thousands of driverless trips each week in other markets, including San Francisco and Phoenix.

Gov. Jared Polis welcomed the move, calling it “a step forward” that could help Coloradans get where they need to go “faster” and “safer.” Denver Mayor Mike Johnston said the innovative, climate-friendly technology can make streets “safer and cleaner,” adding he “can’t wait for [his] first ride.”

Reaction among riders was mixed. One woman told FOX31 she thinks it could be “efficient” if “the price is right and it’s safe,” while another passerby said, “I would try it, but I’d be super nervous.”

Some human drivers raised concerns about competition and Colorado’s conditions.

“It’s not good news,” said rideshare driver Erick Ametefe, pointing to constant construction, winter weather and mountain driving as challenges.

Pricing remains an open question for Denver. Riders in other cities have reported that fares can be slightly higher than competitors at times, and tips aren’t part of the equation. Rates can fluctuate based on time of day, demand and location.

Waymo says public ride-hailing won’t be available right away. The company plans to study Denver’s streets first, with an initial focus on shorter, in-town trips. Interstate driving is not part of the early phase. FOX31 will update when a public launch date is announced.