Waymo recalls nearly 4,000 robotaxis to stop them driving into highway construction zones

Waymo recalled nearly 4,000 of its self-driving vehicles this week to address a software issue that caused them to drive into construction zones on highways. The autonomous vehicle company identified at least 13 instances where its robotaxis entered highway sections that were closed for construction, according to a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The affected vehicles include 3,237 Jaguar I-Pace electric SUVs and 651 Chrysler Pacifica minivans. Waymo stated that the issue stemmed from a software update deployed on February 26, 2024, which affected how the vehicles navigated temporary traffic control devices and lane closures. The company has since deployed a fix for the software, and no injuries or accidents were reported in connection with these incidents. Waymo is notifying affected customers and offering remote software updates.