TL;DRWaymo’s sixth recall covers 13 incidents of robotaxis driving into closed highway construction. A rider thought they’d die. Waymo offered three free rides.
Waymo has issued its sixth recall, covering nearly 4,000 robotaxis that drove into highway construction zones at least 13 times across two cities. Six incidents occurred in Phoenix in April. Seven happened in the San Francisco Bay Area on a single day in May. A fix is “currently under development,” according to NHTSA filings.
The vehicles drove past ramp closure signs, cones, and flashing lights into sections of freeway that were closed for active construction. In some cases, the software was “prioritizing the avoidance of other freeway hazards and/or failing to recognize the construction zone,” Waymo told NHTSA.
One rider posted footage on X showing a Waymo that “blasted through cones” and was chased by police. “There were construction signs. There were lights going on. Police in the distance and it sped up,” the rider told CBS News. “That’s when I looked at my fiancee, we’re done. This is it. We’re dead.” Waymo offered the rider three free rides up to $40 each.
The 💜 of EU techThe latest rumblings from the EU tech scene, a story from our wise ol' founder Boris, and some questionable AI art. It's free, every week, in your inbox. Sign up now!Waymo pulled all robotaxis from highways on May 19 and has not resumed freeway service. The vehicles are still operating on surface streets. The company filed the voluntary recall with NHTSA on June 8 and says it proactively notified state and federal regulators.
