Waymo Recalls 3,871 Robotaxis, Restricts Freeway Rides Over Construction Zone Software Failures
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jun 23
Waymo Recalls 3,871 Robotaxis, Restricts Freeway Rides Over Construction Zone Software Failures
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 23
Summary
Waymo filed a voluntary recall for 3,871 robotaxis using its 5th Generation automated driving system after vehicles entered closed or active freeway construction zones and kept driving.
NHTSA said the software could miss construction zones or prioritize avoiding other freeway hazards, letting cars pass ramp-closure signs or drive between cones at speed.
April and May incidents in Phoenix and the San Francisco Bay Area triggered the action; Waymo said no crashes or injuries were reported but it broadened freeway restrictions while developing a software fix and new operating protocols.
Surface-street service continues in Waymo cities, but the setback hits as the Alphabet unit expands freeway rides launched in late 2025 and prepares entry into more than 20 additional cities in 2026.