Waymo is recalling approximately 3,900 robotaxis in the U.S. to fix software issues after some vehicles drove into freeway construction zones, according to notices filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration published Thursday. The voluntary recall followed 13 known incidents where Waymo robotaxis drove into construction zones on freeways in Phoenix or entered freeway lanes with active construction in the San Francisco area. This marks the Alphabet-owned company's second recall in just over a month, highlighting ongoing challenges with autonomous vehicle software in complex road conditions.
NHTSA Filing Details Fifth-Generation System Flaw
The recall applies to vehicles using Waymo's fifth-generation automated driving systems, according to a letter posted to the regulator's website. The letter noted that "driving through a closed construction zone increases the risk of a crash." The filings documented 13 known incidents where robotaxis either drove into construction zones on Phoenix freeways or entered freeway lanes with active construction in the San Francisco area.
Waymo Restricts Freeway Operations While Developing Remedy
"We identified an area of improvement regarding performance around freeway construction zones," Waymo said in an emailed statement. "We voluntarily restricted freeway operations last month while making improvements, proactively notified state and federal regulators, and decided to file a voluntary software recall with NHTSA. We continue to safely serve riders on surface streets in all the cities where we operate." The company stated it is developing a remedy for the issue and has limited robotaxi availability for use on freeways in the meantime. Waymo had been serving public riders on freeways in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Miami.
Previous Safety Incidents Include School Bus and Flood Issues
Waymo has experienced issues with its vehicles' failure to yield to school buses in Austin, Texas, and other locations, and for performance during widespread power outages in San Francisco in December, when they halted in traffic, causing chaos and gridlock. The company implemented another voluntary recall in May after some of its robotaxis had driven into flooded zones or standing water. The NHTSA Safety Board also initiated a probe of Waymo after a January incident in which a robotaxi illegally passed a stopped school bus.
Company Operates in 11 U.S. Markets With International Expansion Planned
Waymo now operates a commercial robotaxi service in 11 U.S. markets and is available to select riders in a few cities. Waymo is planning its first international expansions to London and Tokyo this year. Earlier this month, the company announced a new $29.99 a month subscription tier for avid users in cities where demand is high.
FAQ
How many Waymo robotaxis are affected by the recall?
Waymo is recalling approximately 3,900 robotaxis in the U.S. to address software issues related to freeway construction zone navigation.
What caused Waymo to file this recall?
The recall followed 13 known incidents where Waymo robotaxis drove into construction zones on freeways in Phoenix or entered freeway lanes with active construction in the San Francisco area, according to NHTSA filings published Thursday.
What actions has Waymo taken in response to the construction zone incidents?
Waymo voluntarily restricted freeway operations last month, is developing a remedy for the software issue, has limited robotaxi availability on freeways, and filed a voluntary recall with NHTSA while continuing to serve riders on surface streets in all operating cities.
