Takeaways:
- A Waymo self-driving car malfunction delayed a passenger’s trip to the airport.
- The incident highlights potential risks and challenges with autonomous vehicle technology.
- Waymo addressed the glitch and has taken steps to prevent similar occurrences.
Rider’s Journey in Circles: A Glitch in Waymo’s Autonomous Tech
A recent incident involving a Waymo self-driving car underscores the growing pains of autonomous vehicle technology. Mike Johns, a Los Angeles-based tech entrepreneur, nearly missed his flight after the car malfunctioned, repeatedly circling a parking lot on the way to Scottsdale Airport in Arizona.
The episode, captured in a video Johns posted on LinkedIn, showcases the potential risks of relying on autonomous vehicles. “I got a flight to catch. Why is this thing going in a circle? I’m getting dizzy,” Johns exclaimed in the video, as he tried to contact Waymo’s customer service. Despite his efforts, the car’s erratic behavior left him frustrated and concerned about missing his flight.
A Close Call
Waymo’s customer service team advised Johns to use the app to override the car’s actions, but initial attempts to stop the vehicle proved challenging. Johns eventually reached his destination after a five-minute delay, but the experience highlighted vulnerabilities in the company’s software.
“Mind you, I was on my way to the airport and now missed my flight,” Johns wrote in his original post. He later updated it to clarify that he nearly missed his flight instead.
Waymo’s Response
In response to the incident, a Waymo spokesperson explained that the malfunction was caused by a software glitch, which has since been resolved. They confirmed that Johns was not charged for the ride and noted that the company attempted to follow up with him via voicemail. The spokesperson added that such glitches are rare and that the company remains committed to enhancing the safety and reliability of its technology.
The Bigger Picture
Waymo’s robotaxi services have become increasingly common in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, where they offer an alternative to traditional ridesharing services. Proponents of the technology praise its potential to reduce traffic injuries and fatalities, aligning with Waymo’s mission of safer transportation.
However, incidents like Johns’ experience highlight the challenges of autonomous driving, including software errors and public safety concerns. In another recent event, a man in downtown Los Angeles allegedly attempted to hijack a Waymo car, showcasing the unique challenges these vehicles face.
Addressing Concerns
While autonomous vehicles have made significant strides, critics argue that more work is needed to ensure consistent reliability. Johns’ incident, though minor in terms of delay, points to the need for companies like Waymo to maintain robust customer service and proactive communication with riders.
Moving Forward
As Waymo continues to expand its services, the company must address these challenges to build public trust. For riders, understanding the limitations of self-driving technology and maintaining open lines of communication with providers are essential for ensuring a smooth experience.