The autonomous ride-sharing branch of Google is using Windsor-built vehicles to launch its world-first service.
Waymo has previously purchased 600 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrids to modify for self-driving.
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has announced today an agreement with Waymo for the purchase of thousands more this year.
Waymo plans to launch the driverless ride hailing service in Phoenix later this year and then expand to other major cities.
Unifor Local 444 President James Stewart says this demonstrates confidence in the vehicle built here.
"They're coming in, they're looking at what we're doing and obviously in this case with the hybrid, there's a recognition we are building a great product here in Windsor and there's companies looking at it and looking at what they can do with that product in the industry, so I think it's great news"
Waymo modified Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, shown at NAIAS (by AM800's Patty Handysides)
Stewart says the Windsor Assembly Plant is capable of handling the increased hybrid volume.
"To make sure when they're talking about the suppliers they can change the ratio not just between the old style van to the new style van, the Pacifica."explains Stewart "But also between the difference models including the hybrid so I don't forsee that being a major issue"
He believes this is a signal to other companies.
"I think our product really offers opportunity for companies to experiment with so to speak, on what they can do aftermarket-wise to vehicles so I'm going to say yes"
Stewart adds this is a positive sign for the workforce at a time when volume is often a bit slower.