Google was mapping Chandler and parts of Ahwatukee since April and now has self-driving cars operating in the metro area, with drivers aboard taking notes and ready to take control if needed. "Each of you here, by letting us drive on your roads, is helping us move this technology faster," John Krafcik, Google's CEO for the self-driving car project, said.

"We look at Austin as one of our big competitors on the economic development front," Chandler Mayor Jay Tibshraeny said, touting the city's prestige in being among the first where the technology is tested.

Google's cars use cameras, lasers and radar to generate a three-dimensional map of the vehicle surroundings to help the cars avoid obstacles, including unexpected things such as children darting into the street or cyclists crossing lanes against traffic.

The company has hired some of its "vehicle safety specialists" to operate the vehicles from Arizona, although officials couldn't provide figures for employment in the state.

Gov. Doug Ducey said Google's technology is an example of Arizona getting  established as a welcoming regulatory environment for innovative companies. "This is where the world is going," he said of Google's technology. "It is truly the way of the future."

"These self-driving cars do a lot to help with congestion on our streets," he said. "It allows you to be more productive and work in your car." "We accept that, and we really shouldn't, " he said.

By Premji