Waymo Recalls Robotaxis Over Freeway Construction Zone Failures

Waymo is recalling nearly 3,900 robotaxis due to repeated failures of its self-driving software to recognize ramp closures and construction zones in Arizona and California. The recall was prompted after incidents were reviewed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in April and May.

The issue affects Waymo’s 5th Generation Automated Driving System (ADS), which powers its fleet of Jaguar vehicles. According to the NHTSA, all recalled vehicles are believed to have this software defect. The autonomous vehicle may enter freeway construction zones at high speed due to prioritizing avoidance of other hazards or failing to recognize the construction zone.

In Phoenix, six incidents involved Waymo robotaxis driving into freeway construction zones despite ramp-closure signs. In San Francisco, seven incidents saw Waymo vehicles entering freeway lanes with active construction and driving between cones marking closures in adjacent lanes.

The NHTSA stated that driving at speed in a freeway construction zone increases the potential for collisions. A May incident involved a Waymo vehicle speeding through a construction zone near San Mateo, California, leading to concerns about safety among passengers.

Waymo has voluntarily restricted freeway operations and notified regulators of the recall. The company’s spokesperson said it aims to improve performance around freeway construction zones and is proactively notifying state and federal authorities.