Waymo is back in San Antonio after flood-related fixes
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A Waymo in Austin earlier this year. Photo: Brandon Bell/Getty Images
Waymo's robotaxis are once again available for rides in San Antonio, five months after the company halted operations in the city when one of the autonomous vehicles drove into flood waters.
Why it matters: San Antonio's flood-prone terrain and extreme weather exposed weaknesses in Waymo's technology and led to a nationwide software recall to fix flooding-related issues.
The latest: Riders who previously had access to Waymo in its initial rollout can now call a ride in the app. The relaunch offers service in a limited area, including San Antonio International Airport.
- The company plans to make the app available to new users in San Antonio later this year. It will welcome waitlisted riders over time.
What they're saying: "Safety is our highest priority, and that unwavering commitment guided every step of the way during this pause," Robert Chen, product lead for weather at Waymo, said in a statement.
- "We took the time to implement key software updates and operational improvements around flood waters, and have thoroughly validated our technology on local roads."
Zoom in: Waymo said it audited potential flood zones and implemented location-specific limitations.
- Software improvements focused on Waymo's ability to detect flood waters — and how to navigate away when necessary — have worked well in other cities where Waymo continued to operate this summer, per the company.
- It also changed its triggers and alerts for conditions like heavy rain, saying it can act quickly if it needs to "adjust operations."
Reality check: There are some weather conditions in which no autonomous vehicle or human driver should be on the road, Waymo acknowledges.
State of play: Waymo could decide to temporarily pause service during extreme weather.
- Its technology has sensors that can track hyperlocal road conditions around it.
Catch up quick: An unoccupied Waymo drove into a flooded San Antonio road in April and was swept into the water. Nobody was injured.
- The incident occurred at Interstate 35 at Salado Creek on the East Side, one of the most flood-prone crossings in the city, the Express-News reported.
- The driverless rides first arrived in San Antonio in late February.
What's next: "We look forward to earning the trust of San Antonians as they experience the magic of Waymo rides once again," Chen said.