Waymo, the autonomous driving technology company, recently announced a voluntary software recall for its fleet of 672 robotaxis. This action follows an incident in Phoenix, Arizona, where an unmanned Waymo vehicle collided with a telephone pole. This is the second recall in Waymo’s operational history, aimed at addressing specific software and mapping issues.
Waymo One is a ride-hailing service employing autonomous vehicles, launched by Waymo in December 2018 in Phoenix, Arizona. The service allows users to book rides via a mobile app, utilizing a fleet of self-driving cars equipped with Waymo’s advanced AI and sensor technology. Waymo One aims to provide a safe and efficient alternative to traditional transportation options.
Incident and Response
On May 21, an empty Waymo vehicle, en route to pick up a passenger, drove through an alley lined with wooden telephone poles. While navigating the narrow path, the vehicle struck a pole, causing minor damage but no injuries. Waymo attributed the mishap to a software error that failed to adequately score the telephone pole as a potential hazard.
Following this event, Waymo updated its mapping and software systems to better identify and respond to similar obstacles. This fix was implemented across the entire fleet at the company’s central depot, rather than through an over-the-air update. The recall was subsequently filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Earlier this year, Waymo recalled 444 vehicles after two minor collisions involving improperly towed pickup trucks. Investigations by the NHTSA also revealed over two dozen incidents involving Waymo’s driverless vehicles, including 17 crashes and five potential traffic law violations.
Service Expansion Amid Challenges
Despite these setbacks, Waymo continues to expand its robotaxi services. Recently, Waymo enlarged its service area in Phoenix by an additional 90 square miles, bringing the total coverage to 315 square miles. This expansion includes areas in North Phoenix, Desert Ridge, and downtown Mesa, providing access to more destinations such as the Mesa Arts Center and local golf courses.
Key Takeaways
- Waymo recalled 672 robotaxis due to a software issue.
- The incident involved an unmanned vehicle hitting a telephone pole.
- The recall was filed with NHTSA and included significant software updates.
The recent incident and recall reflect Waymo’s ongoing challenges in perfecting autonomous driving technology. Despite these issues, the company remains committed to expanding its service footprint and improving safety measures. The latest recall underscores the need for continuous monitoring and updating of autonomous vehicle systems to ensure public safety and trust. As Waymo increases its operational areas, frequent regulatory audits and stringent safety protocols will be crucial in mitigating risks associated with autonomous driving.
