Waymo is recalling approximately 3,900 of its robotaxis in the U.S. to address software issues that led to incidents where vehicles entered freeway construction zones. This voluntary recall, the company's second in over a month, follows 13 reported cases of robotaxis driving into construction areas in Phoenix and San Francisco.
The recall specifically affects vehicles equipped with Waymo's fifth-generation automated driving systems. Waymo acknowledged the increased risk of crashes in closed construction zones and stated that it has restricted freeway operations while working on improvements. The company has faced previous challenges, including failures to yield to school buses and issues during power outages.
Waymo operates a commercial robotaxi service in 11 U.S. markets and is planning international expansions to London and Tokyo. Grayson Brulte, co-founder of AUTNMY AI, noted that while the recall is a proactive measure, it may hinder Waymo's expansion efforts until the software patch is validated