Waymo recalls nearly 3900 self driving cars

Waymo is recalling nearly 3,900 robotaxis from US streets due to a software issue that allows autonomous vehicles to enter and drive in closed freeway construction zones. This recall comes just a month after the company had to recall a similar number of cars after discovering a bug that allowed its autonomous vehicles to drive onto flooded roadways.

The issue is with Waymo’s fifth-generation automated driving system (ADS) software, which under certain circumstances, could allow autonomous vehicles to enter and drive “at speed” in freeway construction zones, according to the safety recall report filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The ADS in question is unable to recognize construction zones or “inappropriately” prioritizes avoiding other freeway hazards. Waymo said it owns all of the 3,871 robotaxis it is recalling.

Mounting safety concerns are bringing into question whether Waymo – or its competitors – might succeed in enabling wider robotaxi adoption alongside political roadblocks hindering rollout plans in the US.

Waymo began monitoring the latest issue after six separate incidents in April where its robotaxis failed to recognize, and drove past, ramp closure signs into pre-planned freeway construction zones in Arizona.

Waymo identified an area of improvement regarding performance around freeway construction zones. It 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.

Autonomous vehicles are still a developing technology.

Waymo’s recall highlights the challenges that must be overcome before they can be widely adopted, including improving performance in construction zones and ensuring safety on the roads.

It is a reminder that the development of autonomous vehicles requires careful testing and regulation to ensure public safety, and companies like Waymo must continue to work with regulators to address these challenges and improve their technology.

For more information on the NHTSA and its role in regulating autonomous vehicles, visit the NHTSA website.