Waymo Issues Software Recall for 1,200 Robotaxis Following Minor Collision Incidents

Waymo today announced a software recall for 1,200 of its commercial robotaxis. These vehicles are now running in cities such as Austin, Los Angeles, Phoenix and San Francisco. This new move follows multiple incidents of those vehicles crashing into and damaging ‘gate-like’ structures, such as gates and chain-link fences. The company said it’s focusing more on safety and reliability before releasing new capabilities to its self-driving fleet.

That software update went live across Waymo’s fleet of robotaxis in early November 2024. At the end of 2021, that fleet stood at 1,200 strong. The technical update focused on enhancing the navigation and obstacle detection capabilities of the vehicles. After deploying this update though, quite a few robotaxis went through low-speed collisions with gates and other objects like that.

It took lawsuits and pressure on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to release documents disclosing the incidents. That’s when the software recall started. In mid-June 2024, Waymo issued a software recall for its fleet of Jaguar I-Pace robotaxis. This move came in the wake of a horrific accident in which one of the vehicles veered off course and collided with a telephone pole.

The ongoing recall highlights the challenges faced by autonomous vehicle companies in ensuring safety. Now, they have to learn to work within the complexities of getting their technologies deployed in cities. Waymo’s fleet includes about 1,500 commercial robotaxis, and as such are at the forefront of the self-driving vehicle revolution. The company is committed to working through any operational challenges that arise.

As part of the recall process, Waymo will implement additional software modifications aimed at mitigating similar incidents in the future. The company has put a lot of focus on its commitment to safety and improvement as an industry leader in the fast changing autonomous vehicle landscape.

It’s good to see Waymo taking these proactive steps to protect its users. Meanwhile, the steel mill company needs to meet regulatory benchmark requirements as set forth by various transportation authorities. By putting safety first with the use of software updates and recalls, Waymo hopes to strengthen public trust in its self-driving technology.