Waymo recalls 3,871 robotaxis over construction zone risk

Key facts

• Waymo is recalling 3,871 robotaxis in the U.S.
• The recall is due to a software issue that could cause vehicles to enter construction zones.
• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) was notified of the recall.
• Waymo has restricted freeway driving and is updating its software.
• There were 13 reported incidents of vehicles entering construction zones.

Alphabet's self-driving unit Waymo is recalling 3,871 robotaxis in the U.S. due to a software issue that could cause the vehicles to enter freeway construction zones. The recall was filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

According to the recall report, there were 13 instances where Waymo vehicles entered restricted construction areas. Six incidents in April involved vehicles failing to recognize ramp-closure signs and driving into pre-planned freeway construction zones in Phoenix. Seven incidents in May occurred when vehicles entered freeway lanes with active construction in the San Francisco Bay Area by driving between cones designating lane closure.